A TEACHER and sports coach who had a huge impact on his pupils has been remembered by friends and colleagues.

Peter Withers died at the age of 87 on Monday, April 16 at his home in Seaford, after a battle with Parkinson’s disease during his final years.

Peter played an influential role at Brighton College, taking on a number of different jobs while he worked there during the final three decades of the last century.

He attended Cambridge University, where he played cricket, and later used this experience to teach his students the knowledge and skills he gained along the way.

During his time at Brighton College, he worked as director of studies, head of the biology department and housemaster of pupils in Durnford house.

Peter coached many of his pupils in various sports teams over the years, including rugby, cricket and football.

Showing his dedication to encouraging positive relationships and engagement at the school, Peter was a longstanding member of its Common Room, from 1973 to 2007.

He gave much of his time to the school, serving for a while as secretary of the Common Room and was also given the important role of master of ceremonies at the school’s annual summer ball.

He enjoyed carrying out this role for many years before passing the responsibility on to his successor.

Peter’s former colleagues and friends at the school have recalled his attention to detail in the classroom over the years, always giving his pupils the best tips for what was expected of them when taking exams.

After a long and successful career at the school, Peter made the decision to retire in 1994.

This did not stop him caring for the school and its pupils and he made his way back there just a few years later to cover for another teacher.

He also carried on teaching at the school in a part-time position up until 2008.

Peter is survived by his wife Barbara and his children.

His five children, Mark, Susan, Kim, Julian and Simon all attended Brighton College as youngsters.

His funeral will be held at St Peter’s Church in Seaford on Wednesday, May 9 at 4pm.

The funeral will be followed by a memorial service at Brighton College, which is yet to announce the details of the service.