TRIBUTES have flooded in for a former teacher who would always go the extra mile for his pupils.

Gordon Prior, who was 82, lived in Lawford and taught in and around the area for 40 years.

He was diagnosed with terminal cancer in November before dying at home on January 31.

Described as the ‘Bobby Robson of primary school football’, Mr Prior dominated the pitch as well as the classroom, winning Harwich’s Fisherman’s Cup so often Lawford’s Highfields Primary School were eventually not invited back.

But it was Mr Prior’s dedication to the children which made him so universally loved, also spending time at Lawford Primary School, as well as All Saints’ and St Joseph’s schools in Dovercourt.

One of his two sons, James, said: “He would always look out for the children who were struggling, as he saw a part of himself in them from his school years.

“He wanted to make them feel special and included.

“His first teaching post was at Harwich County Primary School where he felt part of a family. He loved the families in the town.

Inspiration - Mr Prior was a teacher in the area for 40 years

Inspiration - Mr Prior was a teacher in the area for 40 years

“It was a hard area at the time but he found it a lovely place to teach and would always give up his time to go the extra mile.”

The 34-year-old said the family has been overwhelmed by people showing their love for his father, who was also a Scout leader and football coach in Lawford.

He added: “My dad not only inspired my brother and I in our lives but he inspired so many other people in everything he has been involved in.

“He was a caring, funny and kind man who would do anything for anyone and he will be missed. Those who met my dad will never forget him.”

Family - Gordon (far right) with his children, daughter-in-law and grandaughter

Family - Gordon (far right) with his children, daughter-in-law and grandaughter

To help take his father’s mind off his chemotherapy treatment, James decided to run 50 kilometres, in instalments, to help Mr Prior reminisce on his keen running days gone by and raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. He managed to raise more than £1,000.

James added: “He couldn’t believe it. It was just a little challenge to help take his mind off things but he was absolutely overwhelmed by the support.”

Mr Prior leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Ruby, his children James and Duncan, and his three-year-old granddaughter Francesca.