STAFF at a comprehensive school in Dorset have paid tribute to one of their teachers following his sudden death.

Kevin Smith, head of year and PE teacher at Ferndown Upper, died from a heart attack on Sunday.

Mr Smith, who was 40, had been at Ferndown for nearly 20 years and was a popular member of staff among colleagues and pupils alike.

Dr David Howard, head teacher at the school, said: "Kevin was an inspirational teacher. Generations of children now owe their love of physical education to him. He never stopped doing things for other people.

"Kevin was involved with everything, with school expeditions, ski trips and outings, as well as Wimborne Rugby Club and the wider community."

Mr Smith, a diabetic, died in Lincolnshire where he was working as a lifeguard in Skegness during the summer.

His surviving family - mother, brother and sister - have requested that any collection money in his memory be donated to the RNLI. Mr Smith was not married and had no children.

A memorial service will be held in his honour in the Bournemouth area in the near future. His funeral will be in Lincolnshire.