He was a popular history teacher who inspired his pupils to achieve their dreams.

David Bartram, who was vice principal at Attleborough Academy, died suddenly on Saturday, aged in his 40s.

Neil McShane, Attleborough Academy principal, tweeted: 'No words can adequately convey my sense of loss at the death of my friend and colleague David. God has obviously recalled one of his finest.'

• 'I will never forget my teacher, my friend and my mentor' - a tribute to David Bartram

A wealth of tributes from former pupils shows how highly he was thought of, including these words from Ellie Parravani, who was taught by Mr Bartram at Wymondham High School.

She wrote: 'Mr Bartram was that special teacher that everybody loved, whether you enjoyed school on the whole or not.

'He knew how to make everybody roar with laughter but he also knew how to make us work hard, and give us a good telling off if we needed it.'

She added that he was an influence in her life, and his legacy would live on in those that he taught.

Laura Wing wrote: 'He was the teacher everyone wanted to have.

'He was kind, funny and was capable of engaging even the most disengaged students.

'He was one of the teachers you remember long after leaving school.'

Kat Waldron wrote: 'He first sparked my resolve to work hard, for which I owe him everything.

'Norfolk has lost a truly great man and I will continue to hold my memories of him close to my heart.'

Mr Bartram's enthusiasm inspired some to follow in his footsteps, training to become teachers themselves.

Sam Bartram, of Attleborough, was a university student when his former high school teacher welcomed him back to observe lessons for a week.

'He was only too happy to help and I learned so much.'

Daniel Burton wrote: 'David was and remained my best friend from university and I and his other closest friends are devastated by his death.'

A memorial event was held on Monday, and many more have left tributes online.