Gypsy Award for Welsh teacher

Pembrokeshire headmaster William Rees, who championed the cause of Gypsy and Traveller children, has been given a Welsh Assembly award for his work.

William, headmaster of Monkton Priory School in Pembroke, received his award from Welsh Assembly First Minister Rhodri Morgan. "I’m very proud,” said the head (who was given an MBE in 1999), “but it’s undoubtedly in recognition of all in our school and their work towards a socially inclusive society."

William, who had a passion for writing to the press over any negative coverage of Gypsies and Travellers, retired earlier this year. He's pictured with First Minister Rhodri Morgan (centre) and teaching colleague Beverly Stephens.