Tributes paid to popular teacher
TRIBUTES have flooded in online for a former Runcorn headteacher who has died aged 82.
Gordon Firth, formerly of The Grange Junior School, is reported to have passed away last month.
Mr Firth’s niece Lesley Rawlinson announced his death on the Runcorn Past And Present Facebook group page.
The Grange Junior School has since closed down and been bulldozed for redevelopment as housing.
Its pupils, staff and work was amalgamated into The Grange School, a through school that incorporated the Grange Comprehensive, juniors and infants schools.
The comments section below the post was inundated with messages of goodwill towards Mr Firth, from pupils not just at The Grange but other schools where he worked.
Mr Firth was the father of screenwriter Tim Firth, who wrote for hits such as The Bill, Boon and Spitting Image as well as the 2003 film Calendar Girls.
Lynn Roberts said: “So sorry to hear this. Sincere condolences. Mr Firth was my headmaster at Bradshaw Lane Primary school in Grappenhall, Warrington back in 1966. He was a wonderful man, I’ve never forgotten him and have so many lovely memories. RIP Mr Firth.”
Victoria Shaw said: “Very sad news, Mr Firth was an excellent teacher and Headmaster. Everyone, pupils, teachers and parents had the utmost respect for him – he was a wonderful man.”
Barbara Watson said: “Very sad news. Thoughts go to his family .He was a lovely man, simply the best, a gentle giant and true gentleman.
“It was an honour for me to have worked for him also to have my two children taught by him. He loved his pupils and if any of them had a talent he brought it out of them. I will never forget him. Thank you for everything.”
Lesley said: “To former staff and pupils of The Grange Junior School.
“It is with huge sadness I have to pass on the news that my uncle, Gordon Firth, headteacher at the Grange ● for many years, passed away this morning at the age of 82.
“I will give further information when I have it.”