‘Infectiously enthusiastic’ former teacher Chris dies

TORQUAY teacher, sportsman and coach Chris Penford, described by one former pupil as “infectiously enthusiastic”, has died.

Mr Penford was 61 years old and had lived with Multiple Sclerosis for several years. His death prompted a wave of tributes on social media.

One former pupil said “the world will be a poorer place without you” while another added: “He touched the lives of so many people.”

Herald Express associate editor Jim Parker, who went to Torquay Boys Grammar School with Mr Penford, said they had been lifelong friends. He added: “He will be sadly missed by so many.”

Chris Penford moved to Torquay with his family when his father, the late Dennis Penford was transferred from Reading to play for Torquay United.

While Dennis was part of the promotion winning side of 1959-60, Chris was growing up in Torquay, attending Sherwell Valley Primary School. Even in his young days his sporting abilities were obvious and he appeared for the school in the Webber Shield finals at Plainmoor.

He represented Torquay Boys’ Grammar School at football as well as rugby, cricket and athletics and gained honours at county level.

He was also a member of the Torquay United youth team.

He attended St Luke’s College in Exeter and gained an honours degree. His met his wife Liz at St Luke’s and they married when he left college before returning to Torquay Boys’ Grammar School as a teacher, working alongside those who had taught him only a few years earlier.

His daughters Laura, Katie and Hannah where all born in Torquay.

While at school he developed many successful teams, most notably the football team that won the English Schools FA Cup and went on the represent England in the World Championship in Israel. He played a key part in developing many individual talents including cricketer Chris Reid and footballer Andy Rowland.

With the opening of the centenary hall at TBGS the school launched the Chris Penford Award for Sporting Achievement.

He became head of sixth form and then a well respected deputy head teacher.

His brother Steve said: “The strong moral base and motivational skills developed in the sporting world were key attributes for him as he cherished opportunities to support and develop school pupils through the many challenges of life.”

Mr Penford’s career was cut short by ill-health, leading to early retirement. His work in the teaching profession was recognised in 2008 with a Pearson Teaching Award.

He was also a player and whole-hearted member of Torquay Rugby Club.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at All Saints Church, Babbacombe, on Friday, November 23, at 12.30pm.

His family have requested family flowers only, with donations to the MS Society and the Wooden Spoon Society by retiring collection. They can also be sent to Seb Loram, funeral director at Stockman & Loram, 230 Torquay Road, Paignton, TQ3 2HN.