TRIBUTES have been paid to a “much-loved” former headteacher.

Dennis Morley, 74, of Great Totham, who served as headteacher of St Andrew’s Primary School in Hatfield Peverel, died suddenly earlier this month.

Mr Morley was a Yorkshireman who was born and bred in Doncaster.

He qualified as a teacher with a strong interest in sport including football and cricket.

After marrying Janet in 1967, the couple spent six years in the Bahamas with Dennis working at Queen’s College.

Dennis was also a keen sailor, with his speedboat being used in the filming of the James Bond film Thunderball.

Following his return to Britain, Dennis was employed by St Andrew’s and moved and settled in Great Totham in the 1970s.

Gill Bridle, a friend and neighbour, said: “Dennis was an energetic and innovative head of the school, organising many school trips in the UK and to France.

“He passed on to pupils his love of sport and was a pioneer in CDT/computer work, the school earning glowing praise from HMIs for both subjects.

“He is fondly remembered for feather dusting the computers every morning and briskly tidying the staff room.

“The school went from strength to strength under his leadership, including becoming grant maintained in 1996.”

Dennis retired in 1999 where he devoted his time to travelling, playing golf and spending time with Janet in their holiday home in Moraira, Spain.

Dennis is survived by his wife, two children Lisa and Andrew and grandchildren Eloise and Oscar.

Gill added: “We neighbours were always astounded by the energy and speed with which he tackled everything – we always knew where to go for DIY advice and help.

“He was a much-loved and loving husband and father, as well as a playful gramps to Eloise and Oscar.

“He was a convivial host, an amusing pub companion and an amazing friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew him."