TRIBUTES have been paid to a teacher Edge who was famed for 'making learning fun'.

Andrew Kennett, who died on February 7 of Huntingdon’s disease, at the age of 69, was born in Dursley.

He trained as a teacher at St Paul’s in Cheltenham and went on to teach at Cam Woodfield Primary School.

From there he moved to Nailsworth Primary School, and then took up the headship at Horsley Primary before moving to Bussage Primary School.

After retiring from teaching Mr Kennett took a job as a wine assistant at Sainsbury’s Dudbridge branch, where one of his joys was to be greeted by former pupils.

Mr Kennett leaves his wife of 40 years, Ann, and their son Richard, also a teacher.

Edge Church was packed to capacity for a thanksgiving service which reflected the character of a man who also worked as churchwarden, and who organised the village’s Art Festival.

Besides being renowned as an inspirational teacher, Mr Kennett was also an avid collector of folklore and songs, and a member of the Watersley Bottom Mummers.

Ann said: “We decorated the church for Christmas, Andrew’s favourite time of year, with decorations, a Christmas tree with flashing lights and Christmas carols being sun. It was all about celebrating Andrew, with many people wearing flamboyant bow ties, displays of his paintings on show, and snowdrops, his favourite flower.

“I’ve been amazed at the number of cards I’ve received from Andrew’s past pupils, and the overall comment is that he made learning fun.”

The thanksgiving service also paid tribute to the staff of mention of The Dean Neurological Centre in Gloucester, where Mr Kennett spent the last three years, then finished with the serving of scones and tea, and the performance of a mummers’ play.

Min Hogg, a friend and colleague of Mr Kennett’s at Horsley Primary School, said: “Andrew was a charismatic teacher who left a wealth of lasting memories for the children of our village.

"He instigated the May Day celebrations which have become part of village life.”

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