TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘much-loved’ maths teacher and ‘devoted’ husband from Middlewich. 

Peter Hignett died on Sunday aged 63.

He taught maths at Hartford CE High School for 15 years and he leaves behind a wife, two sons and a daughter, and three grandchildren.

A statement from the school said: “Hartford CE High School is mourning the passing of one of its teachers who so very sadly died on Sunday, March 12.

“Pete Hignett taught maths at the school for 15 years and was a much-loved member of the school community.

“His contribution to the extra-curricular life of the school is outstanding and that is just one of the reasons that he was so well known.

“He will be greatly missed by colleagues, students and parents who knew him.”

Special assemblies have been held in school and pastoral support is being given to students and staff.

Past and present students and staff attended school on Wednesday evening to share prayers, their stories and fond memories of Mr Hignett.

The school said it was working with Mr Hignett’s family and the student body to ensure that he was remembered for his work at the school and details of this will be published on the school website.

The school added: “Pete was a true family man, a caring and devoted husband to Jan, loving father to Steven, James and Sam and doting grandfather to Josef, Mia and Martha.

“His commitment to his family was second to none, always ready to help whenever he was needed.

“He lit up the room with his beaming smile which was infectious to all. His sense of humour is what made him so special and why everybody loved him. He will be so sadly missed.”

A number of people have paid tribute to Mr Hignett on social media.

Speaking on Facebook, Sarah Edgar said: “Some teachers turn up to work and do a good job.

“Some turn up to work because they have a passion, they make a difference, they make the world a better place, they give confidence and self-belief, they do it all with a sense of humour, they gain the respect of pupils and parents and they leave a lasting legacy.

“Mr Hignett was the latter, a very special teacher. RIP.”

Former colleague Helen Suzanne said: “Terribly sad to hear this news. Peter was a lovely colleague to work with. Always smiling and I loved his tricks and mischievous nature.He always had us laughing in the staffroom. Rest in Peace Mr Hignett. My condolences to his family and the school family.”

Helen Scott added: “Without this lovely special man my daughter would not be doing maths and further maths A level and starting a maths degree at university next year.

“He gave her self-belief and confidence. And pastorally he looked after her and her younger sister as only the best teachers do, making time to listen when they needed it. Tragic and sad. RIP.”