THE Dean of Hereford, the Very Rev Michael Tavinor, was one of eight people to be made an honorary fellow of the Guild of Church Musicians at a recent ceremony in Lambeth Palace Chapel.

He received his award from the Archbishop of Canterbury, who is patron of the Guild, which exists to promote and encourage high standards in church music.

The Dean was given his award in recognition of outstanding services to church music over many years.

His musical career began early when he took over as choirmaster of his parish church aged 15. He went on to study music at University College, Durham, where he was organ scholar.

He taught music for two years before returning to college to study for the priesthood. He went on to be Precentor at Ely Cathedral, before becoming Vicar of Tewkesbury, where there is a long musical tradition, for 12 years.

Dean Michael is President of the Church Music Society and has been a director of the English Hymnal Company since 2000.

He is president of Hereford Choral Society and a patron of Hereford Amateur Operatic Society, as well as performing himself with Clergy in Concert.