SOMEONE who combined being head of art at Beath High School with exhibiting work around the world for many years, has retired.

Marcel O'Connor started at Beath in January 1993. He was Principal Teacher of Art for a considerable time and was known to run a 'tight ship' that produced excellent qualifications for the school's youngsters - many of whom went on to Art Schools across Scotland and beyond.

Marcel retired from his post at the Cowdenbeath school this summer to enjoy a relaxing and well-earned lifestyle. Marcel has been a practising artist at the same time as being an Art teacher.

He has won awards and exhibited his work across the world - from Pittencrief House, in Dunfermline; to the Yorozu Tetsugoro Museum, in Japan!

Marcel led the development of Higher Photography here at Beath and built the computer and photography suite in the Art Department. The Higher Photography has been a very popular course delivering high quality portfolios and excellent grades for pupils.

In his time at Beath he has run many Art and design trips to locations such as Paris, the South of France, Amsterdam and down to Newcastle for weekend visits to the Angel of the North.

Said a member of staff: "On behalf of the whole Beath community, we thank you for your 25+ years service to Beath youngsters Marcel and wish you all the very best with this next stage of your life."