A former headteacher described as a “lynchpin” of the Barnes community is to be honoured with an OBE for her contribution to education.

Pat Henchie, who retired from the helm of Lowther School in July after 18 years, was chosen for the honour in recognition of her commitment to teaching and her dedication to her second family - her beloved school and its pupils.

Mark Tuffney, the school's acting headteacher, said he thought it was a well deserved honour that reflected the powerful impact Mrs Henchie had on so many lives.

He said: “It’s brilliant news. It is so well deserved.

"She didn’t just do her job for her it was her life.

“What it shows is she made a real difference to so many people; her staff, her pupils and the community as a whole.”

For further coverage of the New Year's Honours see next week's Richmond and Twickenham Times.