A WIRRAL headteacher took part in the Manchester Marathon at the weekend in memory of a 'much-loved' former deputy head.

Simon Goodwin, South Wirral High School's headteacher,  took part in the Manchester Marathon on Sunday (April 14) to raise money for the Alzheimer's Society in memory of Alan Favager.

Mr Goodwin completed the Manchester Marathon in a "fantastic time" of four hours, 33 minutes and 53 seconds.

Wirral Globe: Simon Goodwin during the Manchester Marathon on Sunday (April 14), which he completed in four hours, 33 minutes and 53 secondsSimon Goodwin during the Manchester Marathon on Sunday (April 14), which he completed in four hours, 33 minutes and 53 seconds (Image: South Wirral High)He has smashed his fundraising target of £1,000, but is still accepting donations on the JustGiving link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/simon-goodwin-1711449886325 .

Described as a 'much loved' deputy Head at South Wirral High School, Mr Favager died on March 10, aged 88. His retirement in August 1996 was described as a great loss to the school.

Mr Favager's association with the High School in Eastham began in 1969 when this new school first opened with Christopher Farwell as Headteacher.

Mr Favager had an important role in the pastoral care of the pupil.

Over the years he had various promotions within the school and became deputy headteacher, a role he continued when South Wirral High School was formed in 1986. He was described as 'pivotal' in the setting up of this new school formed by the amalgamation of the Bromborough and Eastham Secondary Schools.

Wirral Globe: South Wirral High School's headteacher Simon Goodwin celebrates after taking part in the Manchester Marathon on Sunday (April 14) for the Alzheimer's Society in memory of former deputy headteacher Alan FavagerSouth Wirral High School's headteacher Simon Goodwin celebrates after taking part in the Manchester Marathon on Sunday (April 14) for the Alzheimer's Society in memory of former deputy headteacher Alan Favager (Image: South Wirral High School)He was in charge of the Acre Lane site and set up a conducive atmosphere for learning. He always had the interest of the pupils as an important part of schooling.

It was decided to move the whole school onto the Eastham, Plymyard Avenue site during the Summer term of 1988.

Mr Favager worked hard to ensure this change was successful. He was a great support to the staff and pupils alike. He listened to their problems, acted on their cries for help and advised them on the best solution to their predicament.

He was described as "a great role model for the whole school".

Paying tribute Wyn Francis, former Headteacher of South Wirral High School said Mr Favager "was greatly respected by staff, pupils and parents alike and was always ready to listen and to help as required."

He added: "Past pupils always speak very fondly of him and were grateful for the help he offered. His colleagues were equally appreciative of his advice.

"As a language teacher over the years he has dealt with many pupils in the classroom helping them all whatever their ability.

"He dealt equally favourably with all the pupils. Mr Favager was professional and supportive at all times.

"He enjoyed taking part in the school musicals and plays.

"His retirement in August 1996 was described as a great loss to the school. It was very sad to hear of his passing."

A message from Simon Goodwin on the Justgiving page read: "Alan was a much loved Deputy Head at South Wirral High School, remembered fondly by generations of staff and students. Alan passed away on 10th March, aged 88.

"I am running the Manchester Marathon in April and raising money for the Alzheimer's Society, which is the Favager family's preferred charity.

"I also feel a personal connection to the Alzheimer's Society as my own father was affected by the disease in his later years.

"Thanks for your support, if you feel able to contribute."