Procter, who lives in Farsley, has overseen the growth and development of the College’s Print Academy, working under five principals in the process.

To celebrate the achievement, Procter was awarded a special certificate and a signed Yorkshire County Cricket Club bat from the college principal Peter Roberts.

Roberts said: "As a college, we are deeply grateful for John’s tremendous years of service and loyalty, along with all his work with students and the help he has given to colleagues, and we wish him all the very best for the future.

"John is highly regarded both by colleagues and the print industry, which is a great testimony to the work he has done during his 37 years at the college."

Procter was not the first family member to teach at the print department, with his father Frank working there as a part-time tutor for quarter of a decade before John started in 1973.

In addition to working in various lecturing posts, including head of department, curriculum manager and business manager, Procter was involved in establishing PrintIT!.

Commenting on his time at Leeds, Procter said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in education, particularly working in printing, and absolutely have no regrets about getting into the industry – I have a love of printing; it runs in your veins.

"I will still be keeping an eye on college developments and up-to-date with developments in the industry as well as maintaining contact with colleagues in printing across Europe where I have enjoyed many industrial links."