TRIBUTES have poured in for a popular teacher who taught at The Arnewood School in New Milton for more than 40 years.

Former history teacher, head of humanities and assistant headteacher David Jones, passed away following a long illness.

He joined Arnewood in 1972 as a history teacher before finally becoming assistant headteacher at the school he never left.

When David retired from teaching in 2007 he stayed on at the school as an exams officer.

Working at Arnewood was very much a family affair for David, who was joined at the school by his wife and fellow teacher Claire Jones. Their son Richard was also a student in the 1980s.

Executive headteacher, Chris Hummerstone, said: “David had been a very loyal and dedicated colleague at Arnewood for over 40 years.

“He was hugely admired and respected by generations of students, staff and parents as well as many other people who have been associated with the school over the years.

“David was that rare combination: a gentle man and a gentleman and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with David’s family.”

The school, whose flag is at half-mast in tribute to David, has been inundated with messages from staff and students, both past and present.

David Jones, who lived in Bournemouth, was 70-years-old. His funeral was held at Bournemouth Crematorium yesterday (Mar 18)