HUNDREDS of people flooded a social networking site yesterday to leave their tributes to Peter Rippington.

By last night more than 800 people had joined the Facebook page Peter Rippington RIP (click here). Most had left poignant and heart-felt tributes to him.

Among them was Michael Atkinson, who wrote: “Pete Rippington didn’t have to wear a cloak or a mask to hide his identity to prove he was a superhero.

"His wife, children, friends, family and the children he taught already knew that he was... r.i.p Pete.”

Kirsty Frost wrote: “It was 30 years ago that Mr Rippington was my teacher, but I still remember his jokes (me having to dance in his shoes at the school disco) and his fairness as a teacher.

“He respected his pupils, helped us achieve and made learning fun. Thank you Mr Rippington for your dedication.

"I’m so sorry that you have been taken from us all. Love to all your family xxx”

And Emma Chatterley described him as “an inspiration” to his pupils and “such a lovely man”.

In his statement Bryan Maybee, chairman of governors at the school, said: “We pay tribute to Peter Rippington – such a dedicated and inspirational teacher he will be so sadly missed by those who knew him.”

Sarah Veall, a sub-editor on the Worcester News, who was taught by Mr Rippington 25 years ago, said: “Legend is a word that’s often over-used – but not in this case.

"A wonderful man and the best teacher x”

It was not just people associated with the school who are mourning. Mr Rippington was well known as a referee with the Mercian Festival Junior Football League.

George Silverman from the league said: “Peter was a loyal and conscientious referee who had served our league for a number of years during which time he refereed several of our cup finals.

“He will be sadly missed and we offer our condolences to his family.”

And the Rector of Alvechurch, the Rev David Martin said: “Peter was very much part of the wider community in Alvechurch and was known and liked by many. He gave his whole life to Alvechurch CE Middle School and will be sadly missed.”