THE ACCLAIMED Poynton academic Professor Robert Boyd has been knighted in the New Year's Honours List for his services to medicine.

The 65-year-old, full name Sir Robert David Hugh Boyd, of Skellorn Green Lane in Poynton, was one of three medical academics awarded the distinguished honour of the Knights Bachelor, which will be formally bestowed on him by the Queen at a ceremony later this year.

The professor said he was delighted to accept the honour.

He said jokingly: "It is always nice to be recognised, and the cat is pleased too."

But he added modestly: "These things are always just a reflection of the hard work of others in the field. They have the hard work and I get all the enjoyment."

Sir Robert was named in 2000 as the third highest paid academic in the country, earning an estimated £149,000 for his former role as the principal of St George's Hospital Medical School in South London.

He also served in the prestigious position as Pro-vice Chancellor for Medicine at the University of London, with the responsibility of overseeing all medical schools across the city.

He retired from both roles in October 2003, and now serves as chairman of the Lloyds TSB Trust, a charitable trust that supports under-funded charities which help disadvantaged or disabled people play a wider role in the community.

He was previously a consultant children's doctor for over 30 years, serving most of his long and distinguished career at Manchester's Booth Hall Hospital and St Mary's Children's Hospital.

He has also acted as a chair of the Council of UK Heads of Medical School, a member of the Modernisation Board for London and as a scientific advisor to a number of medical charities.

Sir Robert lives with his wife Meriel, 67, who is a mature student at Manchester University studying for a Masters degree in Art HIstory.

The couple have three children; Tom, 36, Diana ,34, and 29-year-old Lucy, who were all educated at Poynton High School.

David Halicki, a senior risk manager and medical devices liaison officer for Stockport NHS Trust, has been awarded the MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours List.

The 51-year-old, of Mallard Crescent, Poynton, was given the award for his work within the Stockport NHS, especially in the field of health and safety.

David joined the NHS trust in 1993 after 23 years as safety officer in the army. He is also secretary for the North West branch of the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.

He said: "It's my 15 minutes of fame. It's one of those things that came out of the blue and I'm pleased my work has been recognised. It's not just for me, it's good news for the trust and good news for the NHS."

In his role as risk manager, David evaluates health and safety issues, particularly safety of colleagues and the public. As medical devices liaison officer, he documents information and investigates cases.

Modest David said: "I don't think of it as a personal thing, there are lots of other people better than me that haven't been recognised. I don't know what singled me out."

The presentation date has not yet been set.