My own memories of Peter were of him sat at his desk in the staff room at Rickmansworth ( how DID he get his own desk in the staff room?) always ready to have a well crafted word, always welcoming, always reassuring. And of course Oby on the Norfolk Broads, where his sense of fun was allowed out a little more. Those days at Ricky were a good period of our young lives but, sadly, nothing is forever. Geoff

I taught English at Rickmansworth , so not in Peter’s department, but I do remember how supportive he was with issues in his form; he knew all of his tutees well and always wanted the best for them. He was such a cheerful person in the staffroom – always a smile and a twinkle in the eye – he added so much to the friendly atmosphere of the staffroom. (I had come to Ricky from a school with a rather pushy and cut-throat atmosphere, so the Ricky staffroom was a complete surprise and delight).   I also still recall a few lines of the words he wrote to “Hall of the Mountain King” as a tribute to Marit the year a group of staff left and songs were written to sing a goodbye tribute.  His words were witty and rhythmical – great to sing! Marit’s song was all about the way she could teach anybody anything, in big groups like the hall – typical Peter observation and affection.   The other memory which stands out refers to John; he was tackled from behind in a staff football match at another school and ripped his cruciate ligaments. Somebody rang me to say John was at Mount Vernon Hospital – could have been Peter – but it was definitely Peter who offered to turn out again on a dark Friday night to be dropped back at the school to drive John’s car back to his flat so John’s souped-up Astra GTE would not be left there.  It was a lot of fuss for him but very kind – especially as everybody else on the team had waited for the ambulance to collect John and then went off to the pub! Mind you, I do think Peter enjoyed driving this flashy car with fluorescent dashboard – he later referred admiringly to the “cockpit” – I think he would willingly have driven it again!  But our memory of that difficult time was Peter’s thoughtfulness and kindness.   So sorry for your loss and for all the family too.   Lyn Hall

So very sad to hear of Peter’s death. He was a senior member of my Student Services team at Sandown High towards the end of our careers. Peter was a giant of a man in wisdom, intellect and charisma. He was gentle and kind and gave good counsel. He knew his pupils and their parents and he went out of his way to help them. He had wit and knowledge that singled him out on the team. He was always straight and honest in his work and I found him fully supportive at all times. Although I haven’t seen Peter for about 6 years now, he has been occasionally in my thoughts and I shall miss him. I am just glad I had the honour and pleasure of knowing him and working with him. I respected him greatly. Rest in Peace Peter and let light perpetual shine upon you. Keith Thompson (and Lesley).