A diplomatic former Ottery student is receiving an award from the Queen for representing the UK’s interests overseas.
Paul Madden was named in Her Majesty’s birthday honours list for his work as the British High Commissioner in Australia.
The Cambridge University graduate will receive an Order of St Michael and St George, a special award for non-military service in a foreign country.
The former Longdogs Lane resident said: “I was delighted to receive the honour, after serving my country for more than 30 years.
“My wife Sarah and I are very much looking forward to going to Buckingham Palace to receive it from the Queen.”
Paul, 54, said he was first inspired for his international roles while studying at The King’s School and the Marist Convent.
“One of the reasons why I have always found it easy to live overseas is because I feel very well grounded with a sense of home. I know where I come from – Ottery,” added the father-of-three.
He has worked under MP Michael Howard, in the USA and in Singapore, but retains strong links with Ottery – he was instrumental in twinning it with the Japanese town of Otari.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here