A FORMER student, teacher and headmaster of one of the oldest schools in the county is to be honoured by governors for a life as an individualist, full of adventure and service.

Colonel Michael Singleton, whose military bearing and pipe were trademarks through his 89 years, followed in his father's footsteps as the principal of the Elms School, Colwall for a quarter of a century.

A classical scholar and educator of the old school, Colonel Singleton believed in freedom outside the classroom and discipline within.

He led his students through early morning exercise, in all weathers, and saw little merit in central heating.

But in their own time he encouraged his charges to roam free on the Malvern Hills and keep a variety of pets, including owls and lambs.

An unreformed traditionalist he enjoyed cricket, country sports and his pipe, often at the same time, bowling in the nets with his pipe clenched firmly between his teeth.

He took part in the liberation of France in 1944 with the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, being wounded on more than one occasion.

Responding to the anti-hunt lobby he is reported to have said he knew exactly what it was like to be shot at, and hit.

After the war he returned to teaching at The Elms becoming headmaster in 1948 until 1973.

Known to his face as 'Mr Michael' and behind his back as 'Boss' he was active both in the school and the community.

He was appointed CBE, became the first High Sheriff of Herefordshire and Worcestershire, a Deputy Lieutenant and a member of the regional Police Authority.

Colonel Singleton died on December 11 after a retirement spent living in Colwall. His widow, Diana who he married in 1939, and four children survive him.

Governors and staff of The Elms School will decide later this month what form their tribute should take.