FORMER headteacher Michael Humphreys was awarded a CBE for his contribution to education.
He retired after 15 years at Our Lady and St John RC High School, Blackburn, in August, leaving a formidable reputation for strong pastoral support for his pupils.
He met Prime Minister Tony Blair on a special visit to the school three years ago to show off advanced information technology projects.
Our Lady's was one of the top achieving schools in the Chief Inspector's annual report on quality and standards in education. The school in is also recognised as a centre of excellence for performing arts and was awarded Arts College status just before Mr Humphreys's retirement.
Peter Morgan, director of education at Blackburn with Darwen Council said: "The award is recognition of the very positive impact Mr Humphreys and staff at his school have had on very many pupils in Blackburn with Darwen over very many years.
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