Tributes paid to ‘fantastic’ former teacher

TRIBUTES have been paid to a well-known former head teacher following his sudden death.

David Leach spent 44 years at Marland Fold special school in Fitton Hill and was instrumental in the school’s success. He died at his home in High Crompton on Wednesday, aged 70.

Oldham-born David joined the school in 1971 and left four years later to become an accountant. But he missed the children so much he returned five years later. He retired in 2005.

A valued member of the Saddleworth Rotary Club, he was also a rugby and horse racing enthusiast.

Wife Jan Leach said: “Even recently when we saw ex-pupils they would run across the street to say hello, he was so well liked. He was a lovely man and a wonderful father, we’ll miss him terribly.”

He leaves behind children Cathy, Johnnie and Helen and five grandchildren.