Pupils tribute to tragic teacher (From Gazette)

Pupils tribute to tragic teacher

4:24pm Friday 19th March 2010 in

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A PRIMARY school teacher was remembered by his pupils, who released helium balloons containing personal notes.

About 90 pupils at Hamford Primary school in Walton took part in the memorial for their teacher Simon Dann, who died suddenly from a heart condition, aged just 44.

Children aged nine to 11, who had been taught by Mr Dann, took part in the remembrance service on Frinton beach this morning.

They heard a short speech from school governor Reverend Graham Dallisson, before releasing the balloons.

The memorial was also attended by members of Mr Dann's family, including his wife Jane and their children Oliver and Angus.

Headteacher Ken Blake said: “I think the children found it a fitting tribute.

“The Rev Dallisson said Mr Dann was going up to heaven and the balloons were symbolic of his rising up.

“It was a really lovely morning. It was calm but spiritual.”

After the release of the balloons, children played rounders together with Mr Dann's children for the charity, Sport Relief, in memory of the teacher, who had been a keen sports fan, while teachers spent time with his family.

Mr Dann died on March 6, after suffering a split aorta. The school was closed on Thursday to allow staff and pupils to attend his funeral.