TEACHERS and pupils have paid tribute to a popular teacher and friend who is taking early retirement after 28 years of service.

Grant Wardman is leaving The Misbourne School in Great Missenden the first and only school he has ever taught at.

Mr Wardman, who teaches English, media studies, and communications studies, will leave at the end of this academic year.

The 51-year-old, who is originally from Barrow-in-Furness, said he had enjoyed being involved with sport at the school and is very proud of his students' achievements.

Mr Wardman said: "I've enjoyed 98 per cent of the lessons I've taught and I've been constantly amazed at the standard of work the students have produced.

"The strangest thing is that lots of ex-students have become friends. Even after 28 years people still find my accent funny."

Paul Crossley, who teaches English at The Misbourne School, said: "He's a great raconteur and wit as well as a great storyteller.

"He's always jollying everybody along, and he's a good friend."

Mr Crossley also remarked on his "northern" sense of humour and commended his work as union representative.

Pupil Keeley Blizzard said: "I have only been taught by him for the past year and have found not only is he a fantastic teacher but he is a friend as well.

"With his strong northern accent our class have had many laughs when he says, look' but he always laughs along with us."

He added: "He has done his fair share of nagging but everyone enjoys going to his lessons and his passion has rubbed off on many of us.

"Media isn't Mr Wardman's only passion and he often talks about his writing and also his painting."

He also has a host of fun memories to draw on.

He laughed: "I will never forget his harmonica performances during our Christmas shows.

"I have a lot of respect for him and am privileged to have been taught by him.

He continued: "We have had many heated debates, which could often last for up to an hour and kept our audiences engrossed."

Keely concluded: "The staff, students and myself want to wish Mr Wardman the best for the future and thank him for his many years of dedication to the Misbourne School."