OBE for Steyning man Nick Linfield

Steyning resident and former Sompting Abbotts Prep School pupil Nick Linfield has been awarded an OBE for his Services to Defence.

Nick, who lives in Church Lane, worked for his family business A. G. Linfield Ltd in Thakeham, before joining the Ministry of Defence in 1992. His career has taken him around the world on defence and diplomacy-related projects.

Nick and his two children, Molly and George, all attended Sompting Abbotts and all achieved scholarships at the school: Nick to Hurstpierpoint and Molly and George to Lancing College.

Nick said: 'I’m very proud that this makes us a first. We’re the only father, son and daughter combination to be up on the scholarship Honours’ Boards hanging in the Sompting Abbott’s Assembly Hall.' He added: 'I had a wonderful education there and really loved the freedom of the immense grounds and the warmth and friendliness of the school – both staff and pupils. There’s something magical about Sompting Abbotts that it's quite difficult to put your finger on.'