Tributes paid to Dr Peter Gorton who taught at Spalding Grammar School and was a governor at Spalding High School

Tributes have been paid to a school teacher and leader who has been described as having a ‘wonderful sense of humour’.

Former students and staff from Spalding Grammar School and Spalding High School attended a service in memory of teacher Dr Peter Gorton at St Mary and St Nicolas Church.

Dr Gorton started teaching chemistry at the grammar school in 1977 and continued his career as head of chemistry, head of science, assistant head teacher and served as a governor at the high school.

Dr Gorton lived in Spalding and was 76 when he died.

Michelle Anderson, executive headmistress at Spalding High School and Spalding Grammar School, said: “He served the school for more than 30 years.

“Many staff and students will remember Peter for leading the annual Christmas service for all the years he was able to.

“Lots of staff who worked with Peter have been recalling anecdotes of his professionalism, love of data and wonderful sense of humour.”

At the high school, Dr Gorton was one of the longest serving governors and also had this role at Spalding Parish and Spalding St John’s. He also held another important role in the community as a lay minister with St Mary and St. Nicholas Parish Church in Spalding.

His passion for education played an integral part in the school communities in which he served, focusing on students’ experiences and a passion for extra curricular activities such as music.

Mrs Anderson added: “He was so fond of listening to music especially at prize giving.

“Peter’s kindness of heart, generosity of spirt, time and enthusiasm for positively supporting the communities he served, mean that he was much loved and will be much missed.

“We may be sad but will no doubt share anecdotes and memories of a man who played such a significant role in our schools.”

Dr Gorton died on September 10. His funeral took place on Wednesday, October 2 and Mrs Anderson added that staff and students all send their deepest condolences to Dr Gorton’s family.