Tributes paid to 'loved and respected' Mark Bushnell, as body found at Blackhall confirmed as Durham deputy headteacher

Durham School deputy headteacher Mark Jonathan Bushnell had been missing since leaving his home on Clay Lane, Durham City, on the morning of Sunday, March 9.

The 50-year-old’s grey Citroen C3 was found in a car park near Blackhall Rocks, on the east Durham coast, early the next morning.

A member of the public found a body on a nearby beach last Saturday morning (March 22) and today Durham Police confirmed it was that of Mr Bushnell.

A police spokeswoman said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Mr Bushnell’s death and the coroner had been informed.

An inquest into the father-of-three’s death is due to be opened at Crook Civic Centre tomorrow morning.

Chief Inspector Andy Huddleston, who led the search for Mr Bushnell, said: “Our thoughts are with Mark’s family at this extremely difficult time.”

Mr Bushnell’s family have not spoken publicly about his disappearance but Chief Insp Huddleston said his wife, Joanna, would like to thank all involved in the search for her husband for their efforts.

Martin George, Durham School’s headmaster, who had spent the Saturday before Mr Bushnell disappeared watching the school’s rugby team, including Mr Bushnell’s eldest son, Jacob, play in the semi-finals of the NatWest Schools Cup in London, paid tribute to his colleague.

“Everyone associated with Durham School, current and past, is deeply saddened at the news,” he said.

“Mark was a loved and respected colleague, teacher and friend for 24 years at Durham School and his presence, professionalism and care have been instrumental in making the school the great place it is today.

“Our thoughts are with Jo, Jacob, Nathan, Johnny and the extended family.

“We shall remember Mark in our prayers during our end-of-term cathedral service on Friday.”

Mr Bushnell left home saying he was taking washing to a laundrette. His car was found at a picnic site with the unwashed laundry still inside.