The headteacher of a Helston primary school during the 1970s has died at the age of 87.

Glyn Hughes was in charge of St Michael’s Junior School between 1971 and 1982.

Many of his former pupils are now parents of children at the school today.

There were 400 pupils in the junior department alone when he was in charge.

Olivia Blake, who joined the school as secretary at the same time and remains in the same post today, said: “He was a fair head and good head.”

Mr Hughes was a keen sportsman, continuing to play rugby for the Cornish Pirates during his headship.

He also ran the Ashton Lady restaurant, next to the pub.

Before joining St Michael’s Mr Hughes was deputy headteacher at Gulval Primary School and then headteacher of Sennen Primary School.

He had been living at Cockwells near Penzance before his death.

A funeral service took place at Treswithian Downs Crematorium near Camborne.

St Michael’s has sent its condolences to Mr Hughes’ family.