A THURROCK education stalwart has been included on the Queen's New Year honours list.
Ralph Henderson, deputy headteacher at William Edwards School and Sports College, Stifford Clays, is set for a visit to Buckingham Palace after being appointed an MBE for services to education.
Mr Henderson, 59, of Newburgh Road, Grays, began his career at the school as a history teacher in 1970 and has been deputy head since 1989.
He said: "I feel very humbled and honoured to accept the award as recognition for all the staff, children, parents and members of the community who have contributed so much to the school over so many years."
Mr Henderson, who was born in Abertillery, Wales, is also a keen sportsman, having played 15 seasons for Thurrock Rugby Club.
He still holds the world record for the number of drop goals scored in one season - 39.
Among the highlights of his teaching career saw Mr Henderson singled out when the Grays-based school won the Queen Mother's Environmental Award, in 1997.
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