DARWEN pupils are raising money in memory of their former headteacher who died of cancer just one month after he was diagnosed.

Geoff Tennant, 63, who taught at Avondale County Primary School, for 22 years, died last month after returning home ill from a trip to Canada.

Pupils and staff, who were devastated by his death, wanted to hold an event in his memory and have chosen to host a Big Brew Up' for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Mr Tennant's personal assistant at Avondale, Jennifer Pickup, said the school was also planning a memorial garden or tree in memory of Mr Tennant.

She added: "We are all still very sad.

"We wanted to do something positive while everyone is grieving.

"We want to have a permanent memorial at the school but these things take time and we wanted to do something now.

"The parents have not been in any of the assemblies where we have paid tribute to him either so it gives them a chance to be involved. So many of them knew him.

"The coffee morning is open to anyone. Past pupils and anyone who knew him is welcome to come and raise money in his memory."

Mr Tennant's widow Liz is also expected to attend the event which is being held tomorrow from 9am until 11am.

Geoff, dubbed an inspirational teacher, was diagnosed with liver cancer just three years into his retirement.

The father-of-four and grandfather of four, died at home Langshaw Drive, Clitheroe, on August 23.

Mr Tennant, retired in 2003 after a 38-year career.

His other posts were at Pendle County Primary School, Edisford Primary, Clitheroe, and Hyndburn Park County Primary, Accrington.

Mrs Pickup added: "Mr Tennant has certainly left his mark here.

"Personally, I feel I have not just lost an ex-colleague but also a close friend. All of us at Avondale feel a great sense of loss.

"Mr Tennant was a wonderful headteacher whom we all respected and admired.

"Someone we will never forget."