A former Prince Henry’s pupil has been awarded a CBE in Queen’s New Year’s Honours list.

Cancer expert Professor David Neal, whose team at Addenbrooke’s introduced a robot that performs intricate surgery on men with prostate cancer, has been awarded a CBE for services to surgery.

The Cambridge University professor of surgical oncology, who is at the heart of the worldwide drive to improve treatments for people with aggressive forms of cancer, said he was “honoured and delighted”.

He also paid tribute to the “wonderful colleagues” he has worked with over the years, including those at the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, and said he was humbled by the patients he helps treat.

He said: “Working with people with cancer is extremely inspiring because of their courage in dealing with this difficult disease and because they are determined to help us with our research to improve things for those who come after.”

Prof Neal is the eldest of Beth and Norman Neal’s four children and is married to Deborah with three daughters and six grandchildren. He attended Prince Henry’s Grammar School, Otley from 1962 to 1969.

Meanwhile, Ilkley resident and Bradford College chairman, Mr Richard Wightman has spoken of his delight at receiving an OBE for his outstanding contribution to Further Education and Voluntary Services to Bradford.

Mr Wightman said: “I am delighted to receive this award. I wish to thank the staff and governors of Bradford College for their continued commitment to educational success for students from all walks of life. Our combined achievements are an example of the great work that happens within the national further education sector, which quietly transforms lives, communities and the economy.”

Mr Wightman added: “It’s one of the greatest colleges in the country and I’m thrilled this honour will raise the profile of the college and young people in Bradford.”

His chairmanship at the college has seen boosts for education and training in Bradford and he has backed Bradford College’s new multi-million pound campus, which will add to the regeneration of Bradford.

Mr Wightman is due to be bestowed at a special investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace later in 2014.