HUNDREDS of mourners have paid tribute to a “legend” of a teacher from Essex who died unexpectedly.

James Hore

HUNDREDS of mourners have paid tribute to a “legend” of a teacher from Essex who died unexpectedly.

Peter Watson had worked at Manningtree High School for 20 years and his kindness and enthusiasm made him incredibly popular with staff and pupils.

The married father-of-two was head of art at the school and died at home after suffering a brain haemorrhage.

His funeral was held yesterday at Lawford Church, and family, friends and pupils gathered in the afternoon sunshine to say a final farewell.

There were so many mourners they could not all fit into the church and many gathered in a room next-door with speakers relaying the service.

His colleagues spoke with fondness of “Pete”, who jokingly referred to himself as an “educational Rambo”.

They described him as “passionate, often unconventional, whirlwind” and spoke about the banter and windups they would enjoy with him.

“If there can be any consolation for us in Pete's untimely death, it is that he left us with many happy memories.

“He had such a positive impact on so many people - we are so proud to have been his friends,” they said.

Pupil Toby Kerins read his poem, Mr Watson, The Legend, paying tribute to his teacher's efforts to make the world a better place.

“He may be gone, but his teaching lives on through us, through his students,” he said.

Reverend Pat Prestney spoke on behalf of Mr Watson's family and described his love of Scotland, having lived there as a boy, and his passion for music, gardening, photography, computers and table tennis.

“He was someone who made such an impression on so many lives,” a “totally unique individual”.

She said: “It was a privilege to know him and to be known by him - he took the trouble to really get to know you.

“He saw you all as special, deserving of time and effort and understanding.”

Mr Watson leaves a widow, Heather, and two children, Rebecca, 30, and Josh, 26.

Headteacher Deborah Hollister said last week that the school was considering a permanent memorial to Mr Watson.

She said: “We have also received letters, cards and emails from parents, ex-colleagues and other schools. Everyone is saying the same sort of things about Peter.

“This support has helped us get through a difficult week and is much appreciated. We miss him very much indeed.”

More than 500 people have also joined a tribute group to Mr Watson on a social networking internet site.