RETIRED headteacher of Cutcombe and Timberscombe schools Marcus Capel has been presented with an award for services to education by the Diocese of Bath and Wells.

Marcus, who retired as a head through ill-health, received the award from Ed Gregory, the new director of education for the diocese.

The citation expresses gratitude for his “outstanding dedication and conscientious service” and recognition of his “devoted care” towards all the pupils in his keeping.

Marcus said: “It has been an honour to be involved with the schools and I am very proud of everything we have achieved. I will miss the children and families and wish them all well for the future.”

He started teaching at Timberscombe School in 1995 and subsequently taught in Williton and Dunster before returning to Timberscombe as head in 2007. Shortly afterwards, he took on the additional headship of Cutcombe School. He worked across West Somerset, chairing the Schools’ Sports Association and helping develop and strengthen collaborative work between schools throughout Somerset.

Marcus is pictured with his award at Wells Cathedral.