ALAN John, caretaker at Buckholme Towers School in Lower Parkstone for 17 years, died in June this year at Forest Holme Hospice.

He and his late wife Heather, who managed the school office, were described as the “spirits of Buckholme” by the school’s headteacher Iain Robertson, who recently unveiled a plaque to their memory at the school’s new Alan and Heather John Memorial Hall.

Hailing from Wales originally, he lived in Oakdale and worked for many years as a labourer in Poole.

As a caretaker for so many years Mr John was popular with children and staff, often greeting pupils and joking with them in the mornings, and winding them up before lessons, much to the chagrin of the teachers who then had to calm them down.

Head teacher Mr Robertson said: “He worked as caretaker for two reasons – to be with his wife, whom he adored, and for the pupils.

“Alan wasn’t your typical caretaker, he was outspoken and some jobs irritated him – he vowed to never pick up a paintbrush. It added to his charm.”

Mrs John died in 2010 and her death had a big impact on her husband and the school, although he remained upbeat with the pupils, and continued to care for their four children from previous marriages.

As well as office manager she also worked as the school nurse and the head teacher’s assistant, despite her aversion to technology. All her work was written down on “little pieces of paper”.

The school’s Heather John Can-Do Cup was named after her.

In March this year a fire destroyed 80 per cent of the school building and lessons moved to the neighbouring Parkstone United Reformed Church.

Mr John was hit hard by the fire, having shared so many happy years and fond memories there with his wife, but he still searched through the rubble to find toys and personal possessions for the pupils in an effort to cheer them up.

Mr Robertson said: “Alan’s death overshadowed the fire and the children suffered another overwhelming loss. Lots of tears were shed, especially with the youngest children as they associated Buckholme with him.

“He and Heather have left a wonderful legacy and it is one that we will cherish dearly.”

The newly-built school re-opened this September and a fundraiser was held for the Forest Holme Hospice, where Mr John spent his last days.