TRIBUTES have been paid to a teacher who taught thousands of children over a career spanning a quarter of a century.

Tony Ellmers was a maths teacher at Clacton County High School from 1974 until he retired on his 60th birthday in 1999.

He died peacefully in his sleep on August 8, aged 77.

Daughter Julia Holdcroft said: "He was a respected and gifted teacher and had innovative ways of helping his students understand their maths, such as setting up the classroom as a mock betting office and using a Dr Who Tardis to help the students with their understanding of dimensions."

Mr Ellmers qualified as a surveyor, but went into education and joined Clacton County High in 1974, going on to teach the children of students he had taught many years before.

Mr Ellmers, of Beatrice Road, Clacton, had many outside interests and was a successful rally driver in his 20s, but when his children came along he hung up his helmet and enjoyed several decades of fishing.

Hs main focus was his family, who described him as a "generous, kind, funny and loving family man".

Mr Ellmers leaves behind three children, seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren and wife of 57 years Peggy.

His funeral will be held at Weeley Crematorium on September 12 at 12.30pm.