Pupils’ shock at sudden death of popular teacher (From Gazette)

Pupils’ shock at sudden death of popular teacher

7:10pm Thursday 18th March 2010 in

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YOUNGSTERS at a primary school are in shock after the sudden death of a popular teacher, aged 44.

Simon Dann, who taught at Hamford Primary, in Walton, passed away after suffering a heart problem.

Mr Dann’s devastated family paid tribute to a man “who lived life to the full”.

Mother Jenny Bell said: “He was mad keen on sport, particularly cycling, and had a keen interest in triathlon in his youth.

“The children at school thought very highly of him and have given my daughter-in-law a lovely book of what they thought about him.”

Mr Dann had taught at Hamford Primary School for less than two terms. The school will remain closed today so staff can attend the funeral.

Headteacher Ken Blake said pupils were very upset at the news.

He said: “I told his class before the rest of the school and it was very difficult.

“There were lots of tears, but the children were very well supported. Staff who weren’t in school that day came in to be with the class.”

He described Mr Dann as a wonderful man.

He continued: “He had only been with us a short while, but had already made his mark in school.

“Simon had been looking forward to working with the children on their cycling proficiency and swimming.

“It’s difficult to put into words how much he will be missed. We were enjoying having him as part of the team. It is a great loss.”

Mr Dann, of Harwich Road, Little Clacton, died on March 6.

He was married to Jane and had two young sons, Oliver and Angus.

Mourners attending the funeral have been asked to wear brightly-coloured ties to celebrate his life.

Almost 100 pupils will release balloons in memory of Mr Dann at the bottom of Frinton’s Connaught Avenue on Friday.

Remembrance ribbons have also been tied to trees in the school grounds and pupils have sent a book of messages and drawings to Mr Dann’s widow.

Mr Blake added: “Our thoughts are with his family and we feel very sad for them.”