TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular primary school teacher who has died.

The member of staff, named as Mr Ehi, taught at New Marston Primary School, Oxford, and is believed to have lived nearby.

Flowers have been left by mourners at the gates of the school in Copse Lane, and a picture of Mr Ehi, who was a teaching assistant who taught music and performance, has been fastened to railings.

The school have refused to comment, are unable to give Mr Ehi's full name and will neither confirm nor deny whether his death was coronavirus related.

They have not said how recently Mr Ehi was in contact with children or staff at the school.

In a facebook post, the school said: "We are a community in sadness and mourning.

"Mr Ehi was loved by all. Good natured, good humoured, well mannered, talented and extremely kind.

"Lovely flowers and tributes [have been] left for Mr Ehi."

The school invited mourners to leave their tributes, saying: "People have been asking whether they can leave more floral tributes and the gates will be open 9.30-12 everyday in order to leave them by the notice board.

Oxford Mail:

"Thank you for all your kind messages."

Commenting on the school's Facebook page, Amany Elshorbagy said: "Such a kind soul. Whenever he passed us on his bike he would call to Lena and wave. Lena loved him and knitted him gloves when she first learned.

"May his family find peace and solace.

Nicki Louise Longton Hennis said: "RIP Mr Ehi, you [were] such a talented person.

"I will miss not seeing you at the school. My thoughts and prayers are with all of your family at this very sad time. RIP sir."

Xoana Rutherford said: "Such sad news. I remember him always so happy and enthusiastic, such a treasure to the children and anyone lucky enough to work with him.

"He will be so missed."

Richard Clare said: "RIP Mr Ehi, a genuinely lovely bloke. Thoughts to all family and friends ❤️."

Oxford Mail:

Hala Kheir said: "Very sad news to hear and very difficult to take in. He was a loved teacher by all children and families. Thinking of all of you."

Preeti Lockwood said: "So sad. He will be missed. My deep condolence to the family."