A secondary school in Darlington has paid tribute to a much-loved teaching assistant and dad-of-five after his sudden death.

Christopher Greaves had worked at Wyvern Academy in Branksome, for 13 years and was known for always going the extra mile.

The 47-year-old leaves behind his wife, Rachel, and their five children; Elizabeth, 26, Hannah, 24, William, 21, Oliver 17, Edward, 16.

He was also a grandfather to Ciaran, Harry, Grace and Lily.

The Northern Echo: Chris Greaves passed away last week. Picture: THE GREAVES FAMILYChris Greaves passed away last week. Picture: THE GREAVES FAMILY

Read more: The Darlington school which has ditched branded uniform for ties made from recycled plastic

The Northern Echo: Wyvern Academy, Darlington. Picture: SARAH CALDECOTTWyvern Academy, Darlington. Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Speaking on behalf of staff and pupils at Wyvern Academy, headmaster, Owen Inglis, paid respect to a man who always went the “extra mile.”

Mr Inglis said: “Chris joined us at Wyvern in 2009 as a science technician.

“Keen to support our students further, he moved into the maths department before moving into the special educational needs department as a teaching assistant.

“Always wanting to develop his skills further, he became a higher level teaching assistant, with an ambition to become a teacher.

“Chris gave his time and support freely, boosting others when they needed it and always going the extra mile to support our school community.

“He readily volunteered for extracurricular activities and had a passion for coaching school football teams so that our pupils could have these richer experiences.

“We will always remember Chris as a member of staff who deeply cared for our students. He was passionate about being in the classroom and supporting our students. He was a much-loved colleague by staff and students alike and we will deeply miss him.”

If you are in need of support you can contact the following:

- Samaritans are available, day or night, 365 days of the year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.

- If U Care Share on 0191 387 5661 or text IUCS to 85258

- SANE on 07984 967 708, Calm on 0800 58 58 58

- Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust crisis line 0800 0516 171.

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