A WEST Devon teacher is celebrating after being given a major industry award.

Following a rigorous selection process, Sue Marks, junior head at St Joseph's School and Lydford resident, has been awarded the Astra Zeneca Primary Science Teacher Award.

The Astra Zeneca Trust Awards recognise teachers who are innovative and creative and whose work contributes to science development in school and engages children in the excitement of science.

The judges observed a lesson, toured the school and talked at length to pupils and staff about Science at St Joseph's.

St Joseph's headteacher Mrs Rowe said: 'I am absolutely delighted that Mrs Sue Marks has been selected to receive this award for her excellent work in the promotion of science within primary schools. It is a worthy accolade to her ability to inspire pupils, staff and parents to work with her to deliver outstanding provision of Science within St Joseph's School and the wider community.'

Dudley Shallcross from the Astra Zeneca Trust presented Mrs Marks with the award, plus £1,000 for the school and £1,000 for Mrs Marks.

 She will continue to teach at St Joseph's but will also be doing work within the local community and other primary schools.