A SOUTH Lakeland school has handed over cash to a rescue charity in memory of its former head of sixth form who passed away earlier this year.

The money has come by way of donations made directly to Dallam School, Milnthorpe, from staff, students, families and friends since the sudden death of Richard Doyle, 52, in February. Mr Doyle was a highly-respected history teacher who had been at the school for 16 years and had been instrumental in the introduction of the International Baccalaureate.

Kerry Steel from Great North Air Ambulance attended the school for the poignant handover of £1,405 which she received from head girl Lauren Tranter in the presence of Simon Howarth, Head of Humanities, headteacher William Bancroft and Mr Doyle's sister, Susan McDermott, who travelled from Carlisle for the occasion.

Ms Steel talked about how donations to the charity made all the difference in supporting its three helicopters and staff.

Mrs McDermott said: “Richard held the charity close to his heart and had always said that he would like any donations to go to the Pride of Cumbria so it was the natural thing to do. We all miss him dearly but there is comfort in knowing he has helped others.”