TRIBUTES have been paid to former teacher John Parker.

The popular teacher appeared in the obituaries column of this week's Warrington Guardian after he passed away aged 78.

Mr Parker, who was born in Culcheth but later lived in Newton-le-Willows, taught for more than 30 years at Selwyn Jones Secondary School, Oakwood Avenue and Park Road County Primary Schools in Warrington.

The keen sportsman played and refereed football and played and umpired cricket.

He was a founding member of Warrington Sunday Football League, undertaking a number of roles from referees’ appointment secretary to secretary and latterly chairman, and was a lifelong supporter of Bolton Wanderers FC.

In his spare time he enjoyed gardening, meals out and short breaks.

He leaves his wife Mavis, one son, one daughter and a granddaughter after his sad death on September 20. 

A funeral service was held on October 11, at St Peter’s Church Newton-le-Willows prior to interment at Newchurch Cemetery, Culcheth.