A FUND-RAISER and online condolence book have been set up in memory of a much-loved PE teacher who helped pupils to excel on the sports field.

Chris Scott died of natural causes on March 2 and was popular with staff and students alike at Queen Elizabeth High School, Hexham.

The fund-raiser, set up by the Hadrian Learning Trust, which runs Hexham Middle School and QEHS, has already amassed over £4,000. The trust plans to work with Chris’ family to decide how best to use the money.

More than 200 past and present pupils, staff, parents and carers have also signed an online condolence book to share their messages, memories and stories of the passionate teacher with his family.

“The school has been pleased to set up these opportunities on behalf of Chris’ family, for people to express condolences and to donate in memory of Chris”, said executive headteacher at QE Graeme Atkins. “I know they have been hugely touched by the many expressions of sympathy and appreciation of Chris that they have received, as they have been by people’s generosity in donating to his memorial fund.”

Chris joined QE as a newly-qualified teacher in 2005, having undertaken one of his training placements at the school - where he also met his wife Gayle, who was a fellow teacher in the PE department.

He excelled in a wide range of sports in his youth, gaining representative honours in football, rugby, cricket athletics and badminton and brought his talents and experiences to bear at the school quickly establishing himself as an outstanding teacher and willing provider of extra-curricular sporting opportunities for pupils.

Chris was promoted to second in department in 2009, before becoming curriculum leader for PE in 2017, continuing the school’s status as a widely respected place of sporting opportunity and excellence.

After his death, Mr Atkins said: “Chris was a much-loved colleague, teacher and friend and a big presence in our community - despite his modest, unassuming, gentle manner. He was tireless in his efforts to support and enable our students to enjoy sport and to succeed, and always had time for them and others.”

The fund-raiser is at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charity-web/charity/displayCharityCampaignPage.action?charityCampaignUrl=ChrisScottMemorial