A Suffolk clergyman has accepted his most recent accolade with the characteristic humility for which he is admired.

Woodbridge rector, Reverend Canon Kevan McCormack, said it was a privilege to become one of only 12 honorary freeman of the town.

The titles keep arriving for Mr McCormack, who, since becoming rector of St Mary’s Church in 2000, has been named Chaplain of Ipswich Town Football Club and Suffolk Coastal District Council, and Officiating Chaplain to the armed forces community at Rock Barracks, near Woodbridge, as well as being appointed Chaplain to the Queen by Buckingham Palace last year.

The latest honour was awarded by Woodbridge Town Council for his “unsung but widespread work in the whole community and influence for good in the town”.

Mr McCormack said: “It’s a privilege as far as I’m concerned. I’ve not a clue what I’ve done to deserve it but I feel it says something about the church’s contribution to the life of the community.

“This town has so much going for it and I want to make people feel they can live and work together regardless of political or religious views.”

As Chaplain to the Queen, Mr McCormack is responsible for a number of honorary duties, including preaching once a year in the Chapel Royal, at St James’ Palace.

As honorary chaplain to Rock Barracks, home of 23 Engineer Regiment (Air Assault), he has strengthened links with the armed forces community.

“The town has an amazing relationship with the army,” he said.

“The base has a full-time padre so my main contact is with those who may come to the church or who I see in the community. It has allowed me to develop and sustain the kind of relationship we want to encourage.

“The church belongs to the community. It’s a fabulous building which we encourage schools and groups to use.”