A MEMORIAL plaque has been unveiled to honour a much-loved teacher who shared his loved of brass band music with thousands of youngsters.

David Jackson, who taught primary school pupils for over half a century, died last April after suffering from cancer.

He spent over 25 years of his career at Consett Junior School and a plaque has been installed at the bandstand in a nearby park.

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Deputy headteacher Rebecca Waters said: “Consett Junior School set up a Gofundme page in June to raise money for a memorial plaque and bench to be placed in Consett and Blackhill Park.

“So far we have raised over £2,000 and have purchased a memorial plaque which has been put on the bandstand in the park."

The Northern Echo: David was much-loved within the school. Picture: REBECCA WATERS David was much-loved within the school. Picture: REBECCA WATERS

Mr Jackson, who was 73, was married to Lorraine, 59, and was a father-of-three and grandfather-of-one.

He became the bandmaster of the Consett Salvation Army Band, the oldest in the world, at 21 and went on to set up Consett Junior Brass in 1973, and then Consett Brass.

Ms Waters added: “We continue to raise funds for the memorial bench which we hope will be in the park by the summer. “We have also created a music room in school dedicated to him.

“The generosity from the local community has been overwhelming and really highlights how inspirational David was to so many people."

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