Touching tributes have been paid to a former Newtown head-teacher who has died, aged 84.

Friends, colleagues and former pupils described retired former Maesyrhandir School head Bill Hopkins as an "amazing teacher" and a "lovely gentleman" following the announcement of his death on Tuesday, June 18.

Mr Hopkins had also previously taught at New Road School and Churchstoke Primary School, having completed his teaching practice at Newtown High School.

After leaving Newtown Grammar School in around 1953, he gained his degree at Aberystwyth University where, during his summer vacations, he went to work in Paddock Wood, Kent at the Smedleys canning factory, and it was here that he met his future wife Gerry, whom he married sixty-one years ago.

After graduating, Bill went to work for the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) in London before returning to Aberystwyth to obtain his teaching certificate, started his teaching career at New Road School, Newtown - now the site of St David's House.

After a few years at New Road, Bill obtained a position in a British Army School in Kuala Lumpur. Bill and Gerry enjoyed their time in Kuala Lumpur so much, that Bill extended his contract from three years to five years.

Having completed his time abroad, Bill was appointed Headteacher of Churchstoke Primary School, moving with the family to live in Hyssington - by now sons William and Gwyn had arrived on the scene.

Bill's final teaching post was as Head at Maesyrhandir Primary School in Newtown.

Bill's interests outside the workplace were varied. He and Gerry were involved for many years with The Talking Newspaper for the Blind, he was Chair of the local branch of the Leukaemia Research Fund for many years but his main interest lay with local dramatics - he acted in and produced innumerable local productions over the years.

Bill and Gerry moved to live in Spain in 2004, where they again became involved in the local community.

This week, over 150 messages had been left online following the announcement of his death, with former pupils and friends lining up to pay tribute to a man many described as an "incredible storyteller".

"Mr Hopkins was an amazing teacher, influencer, mentor, storyteller and all round great man," wrote one.

"I have so many find memories growing up as a pupil of Maesyrhandir Primary school under his headship, from the legendary school plays including the infamous time he shaved his head for the production if The King & I, to him passionately talking to us about travel, religion and the Arts. He had a special place in so many people’s hearts but what a life! Rip Mr Hopkins, you truly were one of the best,"

Another wrote: "He was a wonderful man who had a big impact on me as a child. I owe my love of classical music to him, when I was very young he made me copies of all the music he would play for us during school assembly, it was all I wanted and he was happy to encourage me. Rest in peace Mr Hopkins x."

The funeral is expected to take place in Hyssington, near Churchstoke, where the couple lived prior to their move abroad.