Leading figure in higher education made a CBE by the Queen

Godmanchester’s Martin Doel has been a made a CBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours list.

Mr Doel is the chief executive of the Association of Colleges, having been with the organisation for seven years, and has been recognised for his work within the further education sector.

Through his work, Mr Doel, 59, has highlighted the importance of colleges in providing high-quality technical and professional education and training, promoting the role they play in providing valuable employability skills.

He said: “To be awarded a CBE is a great honour and one which I am delighted to receive. Colleges are truly inspirational and it is important to me and everyone at the association that the sector is recognised for the key role it plays in educating and training millions of people every year.

“I would also like to think this award reflects the determination and commitment of my colleagues at the Association of Colleges in their on-going support of our college members.”

Mr Doel became chief executive of the Association of Colleges in 2008, after a successful career in the Royal Air Force. He was previously director of training and education for all three armed services, working in the Ministry of Defence.

He has lived in Godmanchester with his wife, Angela, since 1991 when he was first stationed at RAF Brampton. His two sons were educated at Hinchingbrooke School in Huntingdon. Martin was subsequently Station Commander at RAF Brampton and Wyton from 2000 to 2003.

Martin became an OBE in 1998 for his work in support of operations in the Balkans and for his contribution to Anglo-German relations.