A TYNEDALE man has been named in King Charles' New Years 2024 Honour list.

Patrick Chapman, from Hexham, has received an MBE for services to the creative industries and to higher education.

"It is surprising and a little overwhelming, but I am really ecstatic," Patrick said.

"I collaborate with other people to help them gain success and recognition, so it is strange to be on the other side.

"I have always had a passion for the arts at school and I was always keen to take part in any event, but it got put to the side when I worked as a civil servant 24 years ago.

"It was only when I was asked to be involved in setting up a campaign for young people to get involved in the arts that it was relighted.

"Despite retiring from being a vice principal at The Northern School of Art in Middlesbrough, I continue to keep myself busy by taking a role at Arts Council England and Northern Print Studio.

"It is really nice to be recognised and for the arts sector as well for the North East.

"It used to be only London that held the jobs but now there is money being put into venues, programmes and studios in the North East.

"Although this is in my name, I feel that this is really for everyone in the industry that I continue to work with.

"The North East has so much potential in the arts industry and it is great to be a part of it."