TRIBUTES have been pouring in for an "inspirational" school teacher, DJ and photographer who has died.

Ivan Stewart Liles, known by many as 'Siddy,' taught science for more than 38 years.

The 67-year-old, from Franche in Kidderminster, died suddenly on Saturday (January 28).

He was a physics teacher at Stourport High School for 23 years from 1979 to 2002.

Alongside teaching, he was regularly hired as a DJ and photographer for many weddings, birthdays and parties.

Stourport High School principal Sara Peace said: “He was an absolute Stourport High legend and he will be very sadly missed.

“As well as an excellent physics teacher, he also put in many extracurricular hours for our students – setting up sound and lights for shows and concerts, getting sixth formers involved in the Arley to Stourport raft races, running discos, and leading ski trips.

“He could seemingly turn his hand to most things and provided wedding photography for ex-students, took part in ballroom dancing, and at one time was a horse owner and trainer.

“Some staff here will have worked with him but many more, as well as parents of current students, will have been taught by him.”

Mr Liles also taught at The Bewdley School from 2018.

Bewdley School headteacher David Hadley-Pryce said: “As heartbroken as we all are, we give thanks for being part of his life, for the joy he brought to so many young people and the enthusiasm for all things science that he shared with so many students across his career.

"He was a good friend to so many, and, of course, a loving husband and father. His loss is felt very deeply.

"Ivan was my first ever head of department when I started teaching in 1992 and was one of the kindest and dearest people it has ever been my privilege to work with. He has taught many of the parents of the current school generation.”

As a mark of respect for Mr Liles, a one-minute silence was held at the school on Tuesday, January 31.

Ian Clarke, a close friend of Mr Liles, was taught by him in the early 80s and described him as an "inspirational" teacher. Mr Liles was the best man at his wedding.

Mr Clarke said: "He was so generous - so kind.

"He died suddenly. He leaves behind a daughter and his wife who are both extremely upset.

“They are very grateful for the support".

Parents and students have also been paying tribute to the late teacher on social media.

On the 'We love Stourport-on-Severn past and present day' Facebook page, Nellie Kimberlin said: "If every teacher was like him kids would enjoy school. Keep that bass pumping in the sky sir."

Tracey Boxall said: "Very sad news, a lovely man who gave so much. Rest in peace Siddy, thank you for the memories."

Sian Gordon said: "Very sad news. He was great and he inspired me to do a DJ course myself."

Dee Hamilton said: "Siddy was such a huge part of children's lives growing up over the years from teacher to DJ.

"He will be sadly missed by many".