AN appeal set up in memory of a Witham headteacher who died in France has raised more than £2,500 in just two days. 

Donations will go towards supporting the family of New Rickstones headteacher Simon Gibbs after he died in the French Alps earlier this month. 

The fundraiser, which has been set up "with the blessing" of the school, had raised £2,510 through 127 donations since being launched on Friday.

All money received will be given to Mr Gibbs' wife and will help remember the “amazing headteacher, husband, dad and friend”.

The fundraiser has been set up by Camellia Sewell, Tina Townsend from the Witham Hub, and New Rickstones deputy headteacher Adam Wilding. 

The Go Fund Me page said: “Thank you so much to all who have supported Simon’s family so far, especially as we are very aware how hard times are for everyone right now.

"Simon touched many people’s lives in many ways.

“We would love you to share your stories, words of support and memories so that the family can see them and take comfort during this truly difficult time if you feel you can.”

Another Go Fund Me appeal for Mr Gibbs' family has raised almost £3,500.

Ot says: "Simon was a devoted husband and an amazing father to his two beautiful children. A hard working family man, and a brilliant friend.

"He will be sorely missed by everyone that loved and cared about him."

In a letter this week sent home to parents and carers, regional education director for the Academies Enterprise Trust Johanna Thompson said: “Simon was a much-loved colleague and brilliant headteacher and we will miss him enormously.

“He will be remembered for his integrity and passion for teaching, as well as his dedication to the community of New Rickstones."

French police say the teacher was wearing a blue jacket, blue denim trousers, and had round brown glasses with a tortoiseshell pattern on at the time he went missing. 

Officers are appealing to anyone who may have seen a man fitting that description between Saturday evening and Sunday morning, in the Giffre Valley, particularly in Samoëns, where he was staying on his holiday, to come forward.

To donate to the fundraiser visit here.