A malt firm employee is celebrating a rare accolade.

William Durrant of Stowmarket malt firm Muntons was over the moon after he gained a Master Maltster qualification - and joined an elite roll of honour.

He scooped the Walter Hyde Award, which is given at the discretion of the examiners to a candidate who has passed the examination with a very high level of distinction.

Since the qualification began, there have only been six candidates who have attained it.

To achieve his Master Maltster status, Will sat two exams, the Malting Diploma, followed by the Master Maltster.

This involved completing a project relating to the malting industry, a case study and a verbal exam.

Will has been working towards the qualification for the past two years.