TOP honours in the Learning category went to the headteacher of a north Hampshire school.

Hilary Jackson is now in her fourth year as head of Testbourne Community School in Whitchurch.

In this time, said her nominator Cllr Alison Wall, Mrs Jackson has "consistently offered the leadership of which the school has been in desperate need for a number of years".

Exam results under Mrs Jackson have been excellent, with the school riding high in the Hampshire GCSE league tables.

Nearly two thirds of the school's pupils achieve five or more GCSEs at grades A to C, against the county average of 58 per cent, and the country average of 53 per cent.

"However, it is not only in the area of her school's academic success that Hilary deserves this award," wrote Cllr Wall. "The difference she has made since her arrival at the school has been outstanding.

"The pupils have achieved a pride in their school which was sadly lacking before. No longer are we offended by the mounds of litter which used to greet our eyes when we visited the school.

"The pupils' manner and attitude to their social and academic learning has improved immensely through simple techniques introduced by Mrs Jackson.

"I know that this is a different and much better school than it was when my daughter attended - before Hilary's time."

Cllr Wall also commented on the enhancement of the school's teaching of the arts, and how sports opportunities are now wider.

A surprised Mrs Jackson was presented with the award by Dr Hilary Jones on Tuesday night.

Afterwards, she said: "I am delighted, if not a bit surprised to win this award.

"I would like to accept it on behalf of the school. You are only as good as the team you work with. All the staff, pupils and parents should be proud of this award - Testbourne really is a community school."