PUPILS and staff paid tribute to the remarkable contribution David Worden has made to Chulmleigh College during a length of service that has spanned almost 50 years!

Countless pupils and families have such fond memories of Mr Worden’s 49 years with the College as a teacher, staff governor, governor and Trustee with the College and the then Educational Trust it formed.

In addition to the length of service teaching at Chulmleigh, David volunteered hundreds of hours to the community in school and to Trust governance, retiring this year from life at Chulmleigh.

Many people will also know David as a Town Councillor at South Molton and also a popular District Councillor with North Devon – David is currently Chair of North Devon Council.

Neil Payne, Chief Executive Officer of Chulmleigh Academy Trust paid tribute to David’s contribution.

He said: “When I think of public service, high standards in public life, selfless service of others – I think of David.

“I have been privileged to work with David for almost 20 years and I like all of my colleagues counted ourselves fortunate to work with him.

“David is a wonderful Teacher, an authority and former Chief Examiner in his subject and above all – a great human being and friend. David’s contribution to Chulmleigh College and the schools in Chulmleigh Academy Trust are simply huge.

“We miss him already from our Trust but recognise the great work he does in South Molton and also more widely in North Devon and this continues. From all of us, David – thank you.”

David Worden joined Chulmleigh College staff and pupils at their final assembly of the Academic Year on Wednesday, July 22 to mark his service over such a long time.

He was born in 1948 in Liskeard, Cornwall and has been a respected Councillor throughout his adult life.