A POPULAR teacher whose death shocked the community will be remembered at a tribute evening at the school where he taught.

Julian Richards taught drama at Wey Valley School from 1992 until the summer of 2015.

As well as being a tutor, Julian - who lived on Portland - acted as head of year, head of personal, social and health education (PSHE) and head of film studies.

He left Wey Valley and had been working as a supply teacher and pursuing his dream of opening a brewery company before his death in March, aged 52.

The school is holding a tribute evening that will be dedicated to his love of music – with live music provided on the night by those he “encouraged and inspired” throughout his career.

Stuart Bainbridge, a friend and colleague of Julian’s for 25 years, said: “Julian was always kind, compassionate, highly-principled and dedicated not only to his boys, Ciaran and Jamie, but to countless other young people.

“He was an inspiration to students, particularly those who found school and education a difficult combination.

“This night offers us all an opportunity to do the things that he enjoyed so much – smile, laugh and enjoy live music.

“Hopefully, everyone will also raise a glass to thank him for crossing our paths and enriching our lives.”

Former head of music at Wey Valley, Ed Hintze, added: “Julian was highly respected by students and staff. He always had time to help students with emotional problems and genuinely cared about pupils under his care.”

Julian Richards – A Night to Remember for over 18s will take place on Saturday, November 12, in the Will Mackaness Hall at Wey Valley School.

There will be a bar, provided by his local, the Royal Portland, and a raffle.

Tickets cost £10, with all proceeds going to the British Heart Foundation, as chosen by his sons.

Tickets must be bought or reserved in advance at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/juliansmusicnight