TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved village teacher who transformed the lives of hundreds of people in Charfield.
Diane Bradley, who died aged 76 in April, has been remembered as a “great” and “memorable” teacher who was “inspirational” to many at Charfield Primary School.
She first began working at the village school in 1972 and remained there until 2011, spending 39 years in charge of the year six class.
Diane’s husband, David Bradley, was also a popular teacher at the primary and for more than 25 years taught year five.
A fundraising page has now been set up in Diane’s memory by David.
He says he hopes to raise money for Friends of Charfield Primary School in recognition of Diane’s love for the children and the village.
David said: “I’d like today’s pupils to benefit from her legacy.
“I know school budgets are really squeezed and I’m sure Friends of Charfield Primary School will know the best way to use any money we raise.”
Diane was responsible for swimming and netball and also helped introduce computers into the classroom and setting up a chess club.
She will also be remembered for arranging residential holidays for senior pupils and liaising with the secondary schools to which her pupils would transfer.
Cricket was an important part of both Diane and David’s lives - Diane even trained to be a scorer for the local cricket club.
Meanwhile, she was also the keen collector for the annual poppy appeal.
So far, more than £600 has been raised through the fundraiser with many former pupils paying tribute to Diane.
One tribute reads: “Mr and Mrs Bradley shaped and improved the lives of thousands of people in Charfield. They are cornerstones of what it is today. So sorry for your loss.”
Another message reads: “A wonderful lady, a great and memorable teacher. Condolences to Mr Bradley and all the family.”
Another says: “Condolences to Bradders and family, fond memories of cricketing days in Charfield.”
Diane’s funeral took place at Westerleigh Crematorium on Friday, May 17.
More than 100 people attended the service including many former pupils - some of whom are now teachers, inspired by Diane.
Former Rector of St John’s, Charfield, the Rev. Robert Pestell took the service and gave his own personal tribute to Diane, who had taught all of his three sons.
Diane was born to Aubrey and Catherine Thomas on April 3, 1948 at Tenby Cottage Hospital.
She qualified as a teacher at Bedford Teacher Training College.
Diane met David while they were both young teachers at Old Fletton County Primary School in Peterborough.
They married in 1971, moved to Gloucestershire in 1972 and settled in Charfield in 1975.
Diane and David lived close to the school in New Street, Charfield.
The couple eventually moved to Tenby in West Wales, on Diane’s retirement.
Diane is survived by her husband David, her mother Catherine Thomas, and her three nieces.
You can view the fundraising page here - tinyurl.com/yc78j94e
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