HUNDREDS of people turned out to pay tribute to Hartford maths teacher Peter Hignett yesterday.

Peter Hignett, who taught maths at Hartford CE High School for 15 years, died on Sunday, aged 63.

More than 650 people, including current and past students and colleagues, gathered into school from 5pm to 7pm last night to remember Mr Hignett.

Cards of condolences and flowers were left in the garden of reflection in the West Building where Mr Hignett planted his own tree in memory of his brother last year.

Writing on the school’s website, Mike Holland, Hartford CE High School head teacher, said: “Last night Hartford Church of England school community gathered to celebrate the life of Pete Hignett.

“Pete joined the school in 2002 as a Maths teacher and very sadly passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2017. He was loved by all who knew him.

"Turnout at school for the event was overwhelming – over 650 students, staff, parents, ex-students and other members of the school community met to remember this wonderful man.

“Prayers were said at 6pm by Phil Highton (the school chaplain) and visitors had the opportunity to write cards of remembrance as well as to place flowers in our reflection garden.

“Pete would have loved to have been there last night.”

Mr Holland revealed the school are now working with Mr Hignett’s family to discuss establish a permanent memorial in his name.

Mr Hignett he leaves a wife, Jan; two sons, Steven and James; a daughter, Sam and three grandchildren, Josef, Mia and Martha.

Mr Holland added: “May I take this opportunity to thank all members of our school community in pulling together at this incredibly sad time.”

A number of people took to Facebook to show their respects following the memorial event.

Michelle Durejko said: “It was lovely to see so many students some who are currently at the school and others that came back to pay their respects.

"You were simply one in a million Mr Hignett and will be missed greatly.”

Meganlinda Moorzyy said: “Rip sir you were one in a million. I will remember everything, you running around the school chasing me, but I will miss you.

“I loved seeing you around the school and in my lesson, you were just amazing, you would always make laugh. I will think of you, sleep tight.”