Tree planted in tribute to respected deputy head

12:34pm Friday 16th November 2001

A TREE has been planted in celebration of the life of Sedgehill Secondary School teacher Patrick Stack.

Headteacher Ilir Phillips led the ceremony at the school in Sedgehill Road, Bellingham, with a moving tribute to her former deputy.

She spoke of the way Mr Stack, who hanged himself in the school's minibus garage earlier this year, had worked to support young people and help them fulfil their potential.

Last year, Mr Stack was presented with an MBE by the Queen for his outstanding work helping students both in and out of school.

At the time of his death he was worried about a forthcoming Ofsted report. He had a history of depression and believed he was not up to the job.

The planting of a flowering cherry, was attended by his wife Cathy, mother Gwen and two of his daughters, as well as former colleagues and students.

Deputy for lifelong learning Councillor Katy Donnelly said: “Pat Stack was a respected and talented teacher who gave so much to his students and was an important member of his local community. This ceremony is a celebration of all his achievements.”