Tributes have poured in following the sudden death of a beloved French teacher and rugby player from Stockport.

Jonathan Gander, 45, tragically died on Tuesday, from a suspected heart attack. In a Facebook post, Werneth School said: "Mr Gardner was a kind and gentle soul who taught with great passion.

"We remember his kindness, his positivity, and his ability to make us smile - qualities that made him truly special. We send our sincere condolences to his family. In the words of one of our Year 8 students who paid tribute to him this week; Merci d'etre un professeur formidable et gentil."

Colleagues and parents paid tribute to the beloved teacher in the comments, with one writing: "Wishing the best for his family, rest in peace. He was such a happy familiar face around the corridors and definitely one I won't forget."

Hundreds of messages have been sent to the school, which staff plan to compile into a student book of condolence for his family, Manchester Evening News reports. A minute's silence was held at the Year 11 football match, and many Year 11 students signed a handmade card to send to his family.

Ms Chantler, acting headteacher at Werneth School, said in a statement on the school's website: "We have lost a much-loved teacher, colleague and friend. Jonathan Gander, was a wonderful person; he was a rugby coach and scout leader outside of school and committed his time to so many worthy causes and people. We will miss him.

"I want to pay tribute to a wonderful man. He was a kind soul, a gentle giant and a man of decency. I know our staff and student body will feel this loss for a long time and I want to thank them all very publicly. Staff have dealt with this in a truly professional manner at the most difficult of times and students have been nothing but respectful and kind."

Mr Gander was also a cherished member of Didsbury Old Bedians RUFC, where he had been involved in every aspect of club life for nearly 10 years.

On the club's website, Ben Rogerson wrote: "He instantly felt at home and made friends everywhere he went. We knew how much Bedians meant to Jon and he meant the world to us all."

Mr Gardner played for many of the club's teams, coached various junior sections and "was the first to volunteer for any job going around the club", whether mowing the pitches, working behind the bar or cleaning the changing rooms, the tribute added.

Heartbreak as teacher dies suddenly with tributes to 'wonderful person' pouring in - The Mirror