AN inquest into the death of a much-loved teacher has been opened and adjourned.

Timothy Matthews died in a house fire in Lewes Road, Darlington, in the early hours of Friday, June 12.

The 48-year-old was a drama and media studies teacher at Egglescliffe School and was described by former students and colleagues as a ‘truly inspirational and amazing man’ who ‘brought out the best in people.’

Assistant coroner Leslie Hamilton opened and adjourned the inquest at Crook Civic Centre today (Monday, September 7).

A review will be held in November.

In the days following Mr Matthews’ death, scores of floral tributes were left outside the school gates.