TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular teacher described by colleagues as a 'true gentleman.'

John Dunstan, a former head of geography at Malton School, passed away peacefully at home on February 15 aged 74 years.

Born in Birkenhead, John's family later moved to Cranham in Essex, before he went to study at Birkbeck University of London where he met and married Dorothy (Dodie)

David, their first child was born in London before they moved to Yorkshire where they had their second child, Claire.

David Ewing, a former colleague, said: "John taught at Malton School for over 30 years and during that time more than 3,000 students passed through the school and many were taught in the Geography department by John.

"His teaching was across the whole age range of students from 11 to 18 years old and all thoroughly enjoyed his work.

"As well as being a geography teacher he subsequently became Head of the Geography department carrying out his duties with integrity and dedication. He was a wonderful leader."

As well as his teaching John was also a Form Tutor and later a Sixth Form Tutor.

He said: "John was also a wonderful mentor to the staff at the school. It was easy for staff to speak with him and they were grateful for his support.

"His work was so positive that many young new teachers learned a lot about teaching and were inspired as they began their careers."

"John was held in high esteem and those who worked with him feel privileged to have worked alongside such a loyal, conscientious, dedicated colleague and a true gentleman."

Outside of school, John enjoyed family life, field trips, photography and his five grandchildren, Megan, Hannah, Abigail, Georgia, and James.

Music also played a great part in his life, he was a founding member of Malton District Male Voice Choir.

Janet Patten, Director of Music for St Michael's Church choir, which John also sang with, said: "He and Dodie made a very important contribution to the life of the Malton community in his unassuming and quiet way. He always knew what was going on in the town.

"It was probably at choir practices that we were most aware of his dry sense of humour which lifted the tone and gave us all the giggles. That he and Dodie, managed to join St Michael’s congregation only a couple of weeks before he died and that John was still joining the choir for practices is testament to his steadfastness and courage."