Tree tribute to top head Chris
In memory...Peter Henstock, Beth May, Jean Henstock, vice principal Judith Briers, Jo Withnall and Brian Withnall during the planting of the cherry tree in memory of former head teacher Chris Henstock. (Picture: Andrew Carpenter/001396-34)
A TREE has been planted in memory of a former Lutterworth head teacher who died suddenly last year.
Chris Henstock, who was head at the then Lutterworth Grammar School between 1995 and 2005, died last September after suffering a heart attack while on holiday in France at the age of 62.
On Friday, a cherry blossom tree was planted next to the school’s E-Learning Centre – for which Mr Henstock had been instrumental in bidding for money to set up – and a bench with a plaque was also unveiled in his memory.
Judith Briers, vice-principal at Lutterworth College, said the idea of planting a tree had been suggested by the college to Mr Henstock’s family and they had agreed that it was a nice gesture.
She added: “We had a short ceremony which Chris’s family, his wife Jean, son Peter and daughter Beth were invited to. His sister Jo Withnall also came along.
“After that we went to the E-Learning Centre where we had set out some photos of Chris and some of his former colleagues, Chris Hunt, John Turner and Bob King each said a few words.
“We chose a cherry blossom tree because it will blossom in the spring and it will be a very fitting tribute.”
During his time at the college, Mr Henstock lived at the site during the week with his wife.
The couple also had a home in Buxton, Derbyshire, where they lived after his retirement.
Mrs Henstock said: “On behalf of myself and my children I am delighted with the gesture Lutterworth College have made to remember my husband.
“He was quite an inspiration to many students in Lutterworth.
“We are also pleased that we could take part in the ceremony.
“We miss and love Chris very much.”
Mr and Mrs Henstock’s two children, Peter and Beth, each have two children of their own.
Shortly before his death, Mr Henstock had been enjoying a walking holiday in the French Alps.
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Tuesday 22 May 2012
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