Updated: Tributes have been paid to a former head of Bitterne Park School.

Barri Hurford-Jones, pictured, died on December 19, at what his son Gareth described as the “grand age of 91”.

“He will be missed by us all and he spoke fondly many times over the years of his years at Bitterne Park working with fabulous students, teachers and parents,” said Gareth.

He taught at the school between 1974 and 1990.

He went on to become a sports journalist, according to his LinkedIn profile.

A spokesperson for Bitterne Park School said: “We are sorry to hear of the passing of Barri Hurford-Jones, a former Bitterne Park School Headteacher. Barri was well liked by teachers, students and the BPS community. We are sending our thoughts to his family and friends at this sad time.”

Mr Hurford-Jones passed away surrounded by his family after a short period in hospital.

Update 24/1/23

Following publication a number of readers posted their own tributes on social media. Here's a selection:

On our Facebook page Helen Andrews said: "Such a wonderful man. Many hours spent in conversation while I was a student. And many hours singing together too. RIP Sir."

Steven Caulton commented: "What a shame, he was such a friendly and enthusiastic headmaster….. always used to talk about Wales and sailing".

And on Twitter @KittyCat34 wrote: "He was a fantastic headteacher. He left the same year as I finished school and I always remember thinking that the school would be very different without him."

He was a fantastic headteacher. He left the same year as I finished school and I always remember thinking that the school would be very different without him.

— Cat (@KittyCat34) January 19, 2023

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