Congratulations to Collector of the Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee, John Fyffe, on receiving his MBE this week.

Joined by his wife Carolyn and their three children, John was presented with his MBE for services to education and young people by Princess Anne at an investiture ceremony in Buckingham Palace.

A past Deacon of The Weaver craft, John started his working life as a toolmaker in Timex, a place where his confidence grew and the foundations of a career mentoring young people were made. John trained to become a technical teacher and went on to work in Perth, Forfar, Monifieth and Arbroath. He was appointed Head Teacher of Blairgowrie High School in 2004, soon after becoming Director of Education for Perth ad Kinross Council and then Deputy Chief Executive.

Although now retired, John remains a non-executive board member of Education Scotland, is on the board of the Scottish Attainment Challenge and is education advisor to the Scottish Attainment Board.  A die-hard Dundee United supporter, John has followed the fortunes of his team wherever they are playing. He is a proud trustee of the Dundee Bairns charity and is the man and inspiration behind the incredibly successful Dundee Tapestry.

Speaking after the ceremony, John said receiving the honour was “something I definitely won’t forget”.