A DEPUTY Lord Lieutenant has become the patron of a Mistley-based charity.

Nigel Spencer, MBE, said he was extremely honoured to be asked to become patron of Acorn Village, which is a charity for adults with learning disabilities.

Mr Spencer spent 41 years teaching at schools and received an MBE for his services to education in 2015.

He said: "Acorn Village is a place of refuge and hope, not only for its residents - people first, disability second - but also for all those who are involved with its function.

"Tolerance and kindness exist in profusion there and its residents and infrastructure are supported by a committed staff and a myriad of volunteers who have been, and still are, prepared to 'go that extra mile'."

He added he was grateful to the Lieutenancy for his initial involvement with Acorn Village via official presentation ceremonies for staff and residents.

Mr Spencer said: "I am extremely honoured therefore to be asked to now become a patron, and consider it personally as a great compliment.

"Be assured I shall actively continue to support and encourage Acorn Village initiatives, wherever possible, for the deserving residents, and urge all of you, if you can, to do likewise."