The first headteacher of one of the city's biggest schools has died at the age of 94.

Tributes have poured in from former pupils and staff for Richard "Dick" Morley, who was affectionately known as Mole.

He was head of Longhill High School in Rottingdean from its opening in 1963 to 1988 and his life was dedicated to helping young people.

His passion for sport led him to have significant involvement with Brighton and Sussex Schools Athletics and he was responsible for bringing the English Schools cross-country championships to the county.

Sussex Athletics was among those to pay tribute, sending “sympathies to his wife Jean and his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren”.

The Argus: He passed away peacefully with his family by his side and he is dearly missed by his wife Jean, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.He passed away peacefully with his family by his side and he is dearly missed by his wife Jean, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. (Image: Longhill High School)

Ex-pupils shared their memories of Mr Morley, who was described as a “wonderful headteacher and person” who had “high values, sense of fairness and rapport with his students".
Right up to his death, Mr Morley, who lived in Ditchling, was an active member of the community. At the age of 85 he abseiled down The Grand hotel in Brighton in aid of the Action For Children charity.

His family have set up a £5,000 fundraiser for a permanent memorial in Ditchling to honour his legacy. 

They want to install a memorial bench in the centre of the village and plant “something spectacular” in memory of the keen gardener.

The donation page, which has already reached more than £1,500, says: “If funds raised exceed this amount, we will identify a Ditchling-based charity supporting the community and donate any remaining funds to an activity that would have made Dick smile”

The Argus: Mr Morley was headteacher at Longhill High School for 25 years, pictured here in the mid-70s.Mr Morley was headteacher at Longhill High School for 25 years, pictured here in the mid-70s. (Image: Longhill High School)

A memorial service for Mr Morley, who died on October 30, will be held at St Margaret’s Church, Ditchling, at 2.30pm today.

Mr Morley's daughter Judith said he had requested no flowers and that people attending should wear bright colours rather than black.

You can donate to his fundraiser at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/dick-morley-ditchling-memorial-fund