DOZENS of mourners had to stand outside the church at the funeral of retired teacher Peter Lewendon, who was one of the stalwarts of Dorchester's Old Hardyeans association.
The funeral at Winterbourne Monkton saw around 60 people follow the service outdoors after so many friends and Old Hardyeans gathered to pay tribute to the former Para-chute Regiment officer who joined the staff of Hardye's School in Dorchester in 1948.
Mr Lewendon taught geography at the school for 36 years before retiring in 1984.
He was a renowned rugby second row forward and took on responsibilities for sports as well.
Colin Lucas, current treasurer and longtime officer of the Old Hardyeans, paid tribute to Mr Lewendon at the service.
He praised the effort that Mr Lewendon put into revitalising the association when it was at a low ebb in the 1970s and turning it into one of the most active old school associations in Dorset.
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Mr Lewendon organised regular monthly luncheons for Old Hardyeans at Dorchester Conservative Club and rarely missed one in spite of failing health and reduced mobility.
He was also involved in the Lions Club of Dorchester as a charter member and past president and as president of Dorchester Rugby Club.
Mr Lewendon leaves a wife, Jill - who was matron when he was housemaster at the grammar school's South Walks House for boarders - and a son and a daughter.
Mr Lucas said: "His keen interest in former students and rugby never diminished. His contribution and influence in sporting developments was a significant factor throughout his life."
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