An Ipswich history stalwart has received the county's highest honour in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the town's people and heritage.

John Norman received the Suffolk Medal on Saturday, becoming only the 14th person to do so.

Clare Countess of Euston, Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, is Chair of the Suffolk Medal Panel.

Ipswich Star: Clare Countess of Euston, Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, is Chair of the Suffolk Medal Panel and presented John Norman with the Suffolk Medal.Clare Countess of Euston, Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, is Chair of the Suffolk Medal Panel and presented John Norman with the Suffolk Medal. (Image: Suffolk Community Foundation)

She said: “John Norman is one of a small band of completely extraordinary Suffolk citizens who transform the lives of all those around them.

“He is as remarkable as any of the great people who dip in and out of this county’s history. Read about his achievements and wonder as I do how he has found time to do so much. 

“It is a privilege for me as his Majesty the King’s representative to present him with a Suffolk Medal, the highest accolade from Suffolk to one of its own.”

The medal was presented to the former lecturer by the Suffolk Community Foundation.

Mr Norman said: “It is an honour, not only for myself, but also for my wife and family who have supported me in all I do.”

Ipswich Star: John Norman, chair of the Ipswich Society, receives the Suffolk Medal.John Norman, chair of the Ipswich Society, receives the Suffolk Medal. (Image: Suffolk Community Foundation)

In November, Mr Norman was made an Honorary Freeman of the Borough. 

For more than four decades, the chairman of the Ipswich Society has dedicated his time to enhancing the county town of Ipswich while inspiring the next generation with his passion for education.

The Ipswich resident was the project manager £75m scheme to build Suffolk New College and served on the Waterfront Partnership Group, which helped transform Ipswich docks into the waterfront it is today.

Ipswich Star: John Norman is the 14th recipient of the Suffolk Medal.John Norman is the 14th recipient of the Suffolk Medal. (Image: Suffolk Community Foundation)

Alongside his wife Christine, the couple welcomed numerous foster children into their home.

The Suffolk Medal was launched in 2019 and members of the public can nominate individuals they feel have made an exceptional contribution to the county and its residents.

To nominate, visit www.thesuffolkmedal.org.uk/nominate