THE best teachers are priceless – because they can have an impact on young people which lasts a lifetime.

Michael McMonigle, widely known as "Mister Mac" to pupils, colleagues and parents, was one of those teachers.

The outpouring of emotion which has followed news of his sudden death is testament to a teacher who inspired extraordinary affection and respect. As one former colleague from Hurworth School, near Darlington, said today: "He didn't just touch lives – he put a massive hand-print all over them."

A former Darlington secondary teacher of the year and then North-East teacher of the year, Mr McMonigle had a rare gift for engaging with children. He made them laugh, involved them, and made them feel special, irrespective of their academic abilities.

Children who were in his classes counted themselves lucky. Fellow teachers felt privileged to work with him. Parents looked forward to talking to him at open evenings and were grateful for the positivity and the values he passed on in his lessons.

His death is a reminder of the value of the teaching profession when it is at its best.

A lot of tears are being shed at the tragic news but it is to be hoped his loved ones find comfort in the depth and sincerity of the tributes which have flooded in.

Mister Mac was born to be a teacher. His massive hand-print will be felt for many years to come.

Rest in peace.