Former staff and the acting director of education and skills for the County Council have paid tribute to an inspirational Ormskirk head teacher.
Peter Guy of Aughton died in Southport hospital on Sunday; he is best known as head at Ormskirk West End Primary School where he left in 2008, taking responsibility for 'turning round' Hillside school in Skem.
Mr Guy taught previously at Aughton Christ Church and then Westhead Lathom St James before his appointment at West End in January 1987.
"He was like a breath of fresh air," said Rosemary Wallington, his deputy for eight years.
"He arrived with lots of new ideas," she added.
For example, he was pioneering in his aim to bring schools of different cultures together, 'twinning' with a school in Blackburn before it became commonplace.
Added Steve Belbin, Lancashire County Council's acting director of education and skills: "Mr Guy was a very well respected headteacher.
"During his headship at West End, he led the school from strength to strength, with it consistently achieving successive Ofsted judgements and pupils achieving very high standards.
"He was devoted to the school community, often running clubs and activities after school and at the weekend.
"He will be sorely missed by the staff and the community."
An extract from the school's 2007 Ofsted gives an insight into Mr. Guy's skills: 'This exceedingly caring headteacher, very ably supported by a most creative and effective deputy headteacher, lead and manage the school with an outstanding vision, based on a belief that every child will get the very best of education in West End School.'
Peter, of Smithy Lane, Aughton, leaves a widow Janet and three children Kate, Rachel and Sarah.