THE headteacher of Twynham School paid tribute to two colleagues as an outdoor space for students was opened in their memory last week.

Dr Terry Fish spoke of how Kieran McGinnity and Pat George made friends whilst working at the secondary school before their deaths in 2004, Pat in September and Kieran in December.

Pat left behind some money to be used at the school and a student canopy seating area was set up, alongside a tree with a plaque holding their names, for the whole school to benefit from.

Dr Terry Fish said: “Pat loved Twynham; it was so much of her life.”

He added: “She loved the Priory Carol Service but she would never let it be called a service, it was always a carol festival, and she used to involve herself in the school newspaper, and in other things within the office.

“Kieran was also a wonderful IT teacher, who taught many students including my son Alex.

“Pat and Kieran were two good friends and they got on so well.”

Judith McGinnity, wife of Kieran, said: “It’s lovely that Kieran’s name lives on.

She added: “Our son Milo starts at the school in September, and my older two boys went here.

“It’s lovely to have this permanent tribute, it’s absolutely brilliant, and although Milo was three when Kieran died, it is a very fitting tribute to his dad, for him to come and see.”

Alan George, brother of Pat, said: “I’m humbled and I never realised that the money would be put to such good use.

“My sister would have loved to have seen this and to be here.

“I’m absolutely delighted and my sister would have been so proud to have the students incorporated into the design.

“Her life has been wrapped up in this. I couldn’t think of a better memory of her than this.”