A RESPECTED teacher has been remembered for “inspiring generations of students” and “touching the hearts of many”. 

Nigel Gibbons was the deputy head teacher at Downton School, which later became known as Trafalgar School, for more than 30 years until his retirement in 2002. He also taught English and French.

The 76-year-old died on Wednesday.  

His wife Joy said: “He was a wonderful man and husband.”

The couple were married for 21 years. 

Nigel has two children, Kate and Mark, and three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. 

In his spare time he loved music and playing the guitar as well as getting out in the garden. 

He also enjoyed food and wine and being among friends. 

“He was loved by all his friends and musician friends,” added Joy. “He touched the hearts of many people and was respected by a lot of people of all ages.”

Joy added: “People have been wonderful and I want to thank everybody for their kindness.”

A tribute from Trafalgar School said: “He truly was a legend and has achieved an almost folklore like status within the Downton area. People often come into the current school as parents and talk about their time in the school when Mr Gibbons was here. 

“He has inspired generations of students at The Trafalgar School at Downton and for that we salute him.”

The school said he was “a true gent, a father figure and, to all of us who knew him, a friend.” and “students respected him and loved him in equal measure”. 

He will also be remembered for his “no nonsense approach, kindness and humour”.