Howard Clarke (OI 1951-58) was used to working as a team, those at school at the same time will well remember the identical Clarke twins and how closely Howard and Vaughan worked together.

Howard continued his teamwork after his marriage, he and his wife, Sue, have worked together for over 50 years, developing new products in their engineering companies. They have supported innovation and education throughout and are exceptionally proud that over 30% of their engineering staff are women.

Their business work in innovation and education has now been recognised in the New Years' Honours list with both of them being awarded MBE’s, a rare accolade for a husband and wife team.

Howard says of the awards;  “What has made it particularly special is the recognition that we are a team. Everything we have done and achieved, both in business and volunteering, is because we are a team. However, our work supporting new innovation and our work with young people, students, interns and graduates has only been possible because we have always been supported by our family and the people we work with."

A huge congratulations to you both on this wonderful recognition!