A POPULAR former Wyre Forest headteacher and respected member of the community has died at the age of 73.

Michael Carter, who also volunteered for the Talking Newspaper, died on Wednesday, July 5.

Michael trained as an early years teacher in 1965 and while at college, met his wife, Jane. After a period of teaching in Birmingham, the couple moved to Kidderminster, where he was appointed deputy headteacher at Wribbenhall Infants School.

Three years later, he was appointed the first male infant headteacher in Worcestershire, at Ronkswood Infant School.

After five years, and with a young family growing up, he was appointed headteacher at Marlpool Infants School - now St Catherines Primary School. Years later, he moved into inspectorate and worked throughout Worcestershire and Herefordshire, supporting schools.

His wife, Jane Carter, said: "He was respected by all he worked with.

"Following major heart surgery, he decided to take early retirement, but not to be deterred, he continued working as a consultant in education and advisory teacher in Worcestershire and also worked with PGCE students.

"When he finally decided it was time to stop, he joined the U3A in Kidderminster and established the Industrial History and Geology groups. He gave time to the Talking Newspaper and supported me in my work with Pets As Therapy."

Mrs Carter added: "The last three years have been very hard as he struggled to live with heart failure, that was increasingly impinging on the quality of his life. However, he carried on with life and managed with inner strength and support.

"Mike loved the work that he did and was dedicated to good education and to the pupils that he taught.

"Finally, he loved his wife and family, to whom he always gave his love, support and encouragement. He was always there needed and proud of their achievements."

Mike and Jane - who were parents to Richard, Paul and Emma - would have celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary this week.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held at St John's Church, in Wolverley, on Monday, July 31, at 1.30pm. Family flowers only, but donations are welcome to the British Heart Foundation, in the care of B Ince Bewdley.