A TEACHER’S passion for eclectic rugby tops was celebrated by colleagues in an event which raised £260 for charity last week.

Mark Thompson taught geography and PE at the Dean Academy in Lydney for more than 10 years and was also a head of year.

He died last month after a long battle with illness.

Craig Palmer, who helped organise the non-uniform day at the school, which raised funds for Bowel Cancer UK, said: “Staff at The Dean Academy in Lydney donned a colourful array of rugby shirts for a non-uniform day last week in memory of a special friend, teacher and colleague.

“I remember Mark’s dry sense of humour, cheeky laugh, and eclectic taste in rugby shirts.

“His collection was wide and varied, often coming from charity shops.

“Mark had some very ‘interesting’ examples.

“I thought it would be a nice touch if staff could don a rugby shirt in his memory, the more outrageous the better.”

The academy will also be awarding a sports trophy in Mark’s honour which will go to the student who shows the most enthusiasm, energy, positivity and commitment to tennis lessons, college matches and clubs.

Pete Glynn, head of PE at the school, said: “Of all the sports that Mark taught at the Dean Academy, tennis was by far his biggest passion, and we felt that the attributes required to receive this award best reflect Mark’s enthusiasm, personality and teaching philosophy.”

Fiona Price, who worked with Mark in the world affairs faculty, added: “I was lucky to work with Mark for two years. We definitely miss his calmness and unflappability as well as his kindness and interest in those he taught.”

Bowel Cancer UK, a charity that provides expert information and support for everyone affected by bowel cancer.

Visit www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk for more information.