Long-serving school governors from Hertfordshire have been rewarded for their services.

The governors received their awards at a presentation ceremony in Stevenage, hosted by Councillor Richard Thake, executive member for education and skills.

A total of 165 governors were eligible for awards, with 22 governors receiving gold awards for more than 20 years of service.

Councillor Thake said at the ceremony: “School governors are vital to the success of Hertfordshire's schools. I want to thank them for everything that they do to give Hertfordshire's children and their teachers the support they need to thrive.”

Among those from the Watford area to be rewarded was Malcolm Curry, chairman of governors at Parkgate Infants and Nursery School, in Northfield Gardens.

He admitted he was stunned when he received his silver award for 15 years of service.

Mr Curry, 62, said: “I just thought 'Crikey, has it been that long' because it's really flown by.

“It can be hard work at times, but it's a really good way of putting something back into the community, and I'd definitely encourage people who want to do something public-spirited to get involved.”

Anyone wanting to become a school governor can get more information by going to www.hertsdirect.org/scholearn/supporting/governors/become/ or by telephoning 01438 843082.