FORMER classmates of an inspirational Swindon school teacher paid tribute to him while he spent his last days in hospital.

Ken Heggie taught in Ruskin Juniors for many years and reunited with his old pupils at a get-together in 2018. He then fell ill and, to cheer him up, the class of 1979/1980 wrote at length about their fondest memories of his lessons which he read from his hospital bed.

Steve Rayner said: “He was kind, incredible and inspiring, he was more than a teacher, he was a friend, there was no-one else like him. We kept in touch for 40 years and he helped me through tough times.

"He was physically frail near the end but still mentally sharp and remembered everything, he was very touched by what we did and said we were like a family to him. We had a love and respect for his natural ability to nurture curiosity in all of us.”

Robert Slade wrote: “I loved being in your class withthe fun, friendship and good humour all shared with an inspirational man who was more like one of us than our teacher. You will always be remembered and loved by many.”

Nadine Brook wrote: “You brought out the best in each and every one of us. You gave us great morals and a sense of self worth Thank you for the memories, the laughter, the lessons in life and for being the best teacher ever.”

Hannah Stubbs wrote: “You are the reason I became a teacher... I carry with me your belief that every child is an individual and their talents deserve to be discovered and celebrated.”

Mr Heggie died in March aged 83 after a long illness. He never married and is survived by two god-sons. His last wish was to be cremated without a funeral and have his ashes scattered with his favourite duck Henry along the river at the back of his house in Marlborough.

He was born in North Wales and studied drama before performing in the theatre and beginning a long teaching career which he described as his “most fulfilling and happiest years”.