A MARLBOROUGH College teacher is shooting for the stars after being elected as vice-president of the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS).

After spending several years on the council at the RAS, the college's head of Astronomy, Charles Barclay, was selected for the role following a meeting last week.

Mr Barclay, who will continue teaching Physics and Astronomy at the college, said he was delighted about the appointment but was also somewhat surprised as it is rare for someone who is not teaching at university to be chosen for the role.

"I am delighted to have been given this opportunity but also slightly surprised as I think it is the first time in a long time that someone who does not hold a chair in university research has been chosen," he said.

"I have loved my time on the council and I am very excited and humbled to take on this role and to continue to work with top astronomers."

Deputy headteacher Jaideep Barot said: "We warmly congratulate Charles on his appointment. We wish Charles well in this prestigious role, and are pleased that both pupils and staff of the College will continue to benefit from his passion and expertise in all things astronomical."