ELTON Community Primary School has announced that Shell engineer Alex Jones is to become its new chairman of governors.

Mr Jones became a member of the governing body in 2001 when headteacher Sue Moorcroft approached the company asking for its support in the hope of establishing a link with industry.

Since his initial involvement he has held the position of deputy chairman and is the school’s ambassador for science.

Mr Jones said: “It was a pleasant surprise for me and I am delighted to have been elected as chairman by the governing body.

“I am especially looking forward to the ongoing challenges I will face over the coming year and to helping Sue and her team continue the fabulous work they achieve at the school.”

Sue said: “Alex provides an invaluable service to the school and we are really pleased with his recent appointment.

“He has helped the school in many ways thanks to his financial and technical abilities and we look forward to benefiting more from his expertise.”

Mr Jones, who was born in Huddersfield, is a graduate of Liverpool University and a member of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers.

He has worked for Shell for 27 years in a number of mechanical engineering positions within the UK.