A teacher who has worked in Epping Forest for 32 years has been honoured at an awards ceremony.

Stephen Murray, of Roding Valley High School, received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Essex Teaching Awards.

Mr Murray said: “I am absolutely thrilled by this award and would like to thank the school for nominating me.

“Teaching is a hard, full-on job but each day is different, nearly always enjoyable and each day usually has its own moment of magic.”

Headteacher Paul Banks said Mr Murray has made an ‘amazing’ contribution to children''s education.

Mr Murray was one of four Essex teachers to receive a Lifetime Achievement award.

All the winners will now be entered into the National Teaching Awards.