The executive headteacher of a Walthamstow primary school has been given a knighthood in the New Year's Honours list.

Steve Lancashire, 52, the chief executive of academy trusts REAch2, which oversees 53 schools, and the newly formed REAch4 was recognised for his services to education.

Sir Steve is also executive headteacher of Hillyfield Primary Academy, in Higham Hill Road, Walthamstow.

Sir Steve grew up as part of a mining community and was educated in Sheffield and has been a headteacher for over twenty years.

Sir Steve said: "My passion for learning and education was instilled at a very early age by my parents.

"They taught me to believe in myself and in the power of education to change lives and bring opportunity.

"I try to bring this belief and passion to the children in our trust."