FORMER pupils of an “amazing teacher” who has died aged 51 have paid tributes to him.

As the Star reported, Anthony Sykes, who taught science at Sutton Academy for more than 20 years, died on Friday, September 30, aged 51, following an illness.

Away from the classroom, Anthony was known for riding his Harley Davidson and shredding the guitar in his band.

He was also president of the St Helens District National Education Union (NEU) branch and served as a Labour councillor for Ashton-in-Makerfield ward on Wigan Council since 2018.

St Helens Star: Anthony Sykes on his beloved Harley DavidsonAnthony Sykes on his beloved Harley Davidson (Image: Wigan Council)

Anthony, who taught at Sutton Academy, formerly called Sutton High, for 22 years, was described as someone who “genuinely cared about people.”

Former pupils who were taught by Anthony have paid their own tributes to him on the Star’s social media pages.

Danielle Cray wrote: “One of the kindest, funniest and caring teachers I had.. it was an honour to have you as my teacher and my daughter’s teacher! Sleep tight Sir xxx”

Scott Clayton said: “Best teacher I ever had. RIP sir”

Another former pupil Gary Gibbon said: “Absolutely gutted to read this and thoughts are with his family. One of the best teachers I ever had and he will sadly be missed.

.....RIP Mr Sykes.”

READ MORE > Warm tributes paid to teacher who has died aged 51  

Keira Louise Bowtell-Swift added: “Taught by him in year 9/10 around 4/5 years ago and honestly loved his lessons! Best science teacher”.

Jemma Gallimore said: “Mr Sykes was an amazing science teacher always looked forward to my lesson made science enjoyable and made everyone laugh. R.I.P Mr Sykes you will be missed.”

Meanwhile, Suzanne Gaskell said: “My son was taught by him, described him as kind, caring making the lesson fun. Would help anyone if he could. Rest peacefully Anthony”.

St Helens Star: Anthony SykesAnthony Sykes (Image: Wigan Council)

In a tribute, Paul Willerton, principal of Sutton Academy, said: "The academy is finding it difficult to come to terms with the loss of Mr Sykes, a teacher here at the academy for 22 years.

"Due to the nature of Anthony's illness, it was news we had been expecting but it has shocked our community.

"Anthony thrived in front of a class, engaging his students in the subject he loved - science.

"Anthony genuinely cared about people. He made an impact on the lives of so many staff and students within our community, we will miss him dearly."

  • Sutton Academy has opened a book of condolences and is inviting staff, students and parents to contribute stories and memories of Anthony. This can be done by emailing tsacondolences@thesuttonacademy.org.uk