STAFF and pupils at Melksham Oak Community School have been left devastated by the sudden death of a former long-standing science teacher.

Martyn Dunn, who taught at the school for 10 years, died suddenly last Wednesday (June 8) and was described as “hugely popular, influential and talented” in an emotional tribute.

The 34-year-old, who was known as 'Dunny', collapsed while taking part in a five-a-side football match at Stonar School in Atworth. He is understood to have been suffering from a heart condition.

He leaves his long-term partner Katie Lambert, their son Teddy and two stepdaughters Livvy and Cammy.

Mr Dunn, who lived in Atworth, joined Melksham Oak in September 2004 as a science teacher. He was head of Year 11 for many years and is remembered fondly by the many students that he helped and supported. He left Melksham Oak for a job as assistant headteacher at John Bentley School in Calne in 2014.

Aidan Blowers, assistant head at Melksham Oak, led the tributes.

“Dunny was an ebullient and charismatic figure," he said.

"He had a passion for education and a commitment to providing an ethos of respect, resilience and hard work, balanced with his inimitable and warm sense of humour.

“It is no coincidence that he followed in the footsteps of his father, a former deputy head, and these qualities, instilled by his family and upbringing, have remained constant in the way he worked with all members of the community, in school and out.

"It is no exaggeration to say that countless students owe their success now to the guidance that he provided. He was the most well-loved of staff; putting the needs of others first and lightening a sometimes challenging environment with his sunny disposition."

His partner Ms Lambert said: “Dunny was a hero. A legend. The girls, Teddy and I knew that every day of living with him. We cannot live another day with him, so sharing your stories and seeing your sorrow reminds my family of the legend and hero that was our Dunny.”

Mr Dunn’s funeral is set to take place next Friday (June 24) at St Michael’s Church, Melksham from 3pm, and afterwards at The White Hart in Atworth. Family flowers only and the dress code is 'post-match smart'.

Donations ahead of the funeral can be made to Churchfields Primary School's sports equipment fund care of DJ Bewley & Sons.