AN EAST Dorset school is in mourning after its caretaker was found dead near a local church.

The body of Peter Watkins, who worked at Hampreston CE VA First School in the village near Wimborne, was found in the churchyard of the nearby parish church, All Saints.

The school’s head teacher Jane Marshall has paid tribute to Mr Watkins, who worked at the site for three and a half years.

She said: “Everybody in the Hampreston community is devastated by the loss of Mr Peter Watkins, our much loved and highly valued caretaker.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”

The school boasts close ties with the community church, and its clergyman, the Rev Lawrie Clow, is the vice chair of the school governors.

He spoke of the “shock and sorrow” everyone was feeling, and said the community’s prayers were with those affected.

“As a fellowship of life and peace, we seek to bring the love of Jesus to all circumstances,” he said.

“May those who mourn find comfort.”

Ward councillor Tony Brown said he was “desperately sad” to hear of the tragedy.

“It’s very sad news indeed,” he said.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathies to the family and all those concerned. I’m sure the community will rally around to help those affected by this awful news.”

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said no one was being sought in connection with the death.

She added: “Dorset Police received a call at 8.44am on Monday 10 June 2013 reporting a sudden death at Hampreston Church near Wimborne.

“Officers attended. The death is not treated as suspicious. An inquest was opened and adjourned at 9.25am on 13 June 2013 at the coroner’s court in Bournemouth. Evidence was heard that 62-year-old Peter Watkins was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of death is unascertained.”