Tributes paid to former Melksham teacher

TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Melksham teacher after he died aged 34 last week.

Martyn Dunn, former head of year 11 at Melksham Oak School, died on Wednesday 8th June after collapsing on a football pitch.

Assistant headteacher at Melksham Oak School, Aidan Blowers writes, “It is with deep sadness that we are reporting the sudden and tragic passing of Mr Martyn Dunn. Martyn Dunn was a hugely popular, influential and talented assistant headteacher and teacher of science at John Bentley School, Calne, having formerly spent a decade at George Ward and latterly Melksham Oak School until Christmas 2014.

“He is survived by his partner Katie, their son Teddy, his two step-daughters Livvy and Cammy, his parents Steve and Julia Dunn and his little sister Sarah Dunn.

“Martyn Dunn (Dunny) was an ebullient and charismatic figure. He had a passion for education and a commitment to providing an ethos of respect, resilience and hard work, balanced with his inimitable and warm sense of humour.

“It is no coincidence that he followed in the footsteps of his father, a former deputy head, and these qualities, instilled by his family and upbringing, have remained constant in the way he worked with all members of the community in school and out.

“As the Head of Year 11 at Melksham Oak for many years, Martyn supported students through their most critical year with rigour, support and love. It is no exaggeration to say that countless students owe their success now to the guidance that he provided.

“He was the most well-loved of staff; putting the needs of others first and lightening a sometimes challenging environment with his sunny disposition. It is at Melksham Oak that he met and fell in love with his partner Katie Lambert.

“He achieved a promotion to John Bentley as assistant headteacher. This provided the platform for him to further support students, providing insight and intervention across the school.

“Dunny was a huge sports fan. He could turn his hand to most things, playing rugby for Walcot for many years, and more recently Melksham. His legacy was clear as illustrated in a statement released by Melksham RFC; ‘Martyn had a fantastic influence within our club and community and meant so much to many; a true inspiration to people on and off the pitch.’

“There is perhaps something resonant and comforting in the fact that he passed away playing football with good friends on a warm summer’s evening. He really did embrace each and every day.

“More than anything though, Dunny was a family man committed to his partner and their children.  He meant the world to them and they are united in their grief. His partner Katie shared these words, ‘Dunny was a hero. A legend. The girls, Teddy and I knew that every day of living with him. We can’t live another day with him, so sharing your stories and seeing your sorrow reminds my family of the legend and hero that was our Dunny.’

“Come and share those stories. We will be commemorating Dunny’s life at his funeral on Friday 24th June at St Michael’s Church Melksham from 3pm, and afterwards at The White Hart in Atworth. All are welcome.

“Please note flowers are for immediate family only. Dress is ‘post-match smart.’

“Donations can be made to Churchfields School, Atworth sports equipment fund, care of D.J. Bewley and Sons. Dunny’s son Teddy is due to start school there in September.”