A TEACHER at one of the UK’s most prestigious private schools was found dead at the scene of their nativity play.
Staff and pupils at £8,735-a-term Pembridge Hall School in London’s Notting Hill were devastated after the man was discovered lifeless.
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Clergymen came across his body on the stage at a nearby church, where he had masterminded the school’s long-anticipated Christmas play.
The body of the 52-year-old veteran teacher was found last Tuesday morning. He was understood to have died the previous evening – after the nativity.
The school Christmas Carol Concert was also due to be staged at the same church venue, but has now been switched elsewhere.
Will Coleridge, Church of England vicar of St Matthew’s, Bayswater in west London told The Sun: “We sadly had an unfortunate incident here on Monday night. It was inside the church. I can’t say too much but it is dreadful.
“I half knew the deceased. Of course the nativity here is all cancelled now – they will do it elsewhere, which is understandable.”
Pembridge Hall School, a two minute walk from St Matthew’s, is a hugely sought-after prep education hub for girls aged four to 11.
It is the sister school to Wetherby, which was attended by Princes William and Harry, and actor Hugh Grant.
The school advertises its strong links with the local community, with Friday assemblies and seasonal productions regularly being staged at St Matthew’s.
Sophie Banks, Headmistress, Pembridge Hall School, told The Sun: “We are all deeply saddened at the recent passing of a member of our school’s community.
“On behalf of the school, we would like to extend our sincerest condolences to their family and friends. As we collectively navigate through this challenging period, we will focus on supporting our girls and colleagues.”
A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We were called on 5 December at 8:52am to reports of an incident at St Petersburgh Place, W2.
“We sent a number of resources to the scene, including a medic in a fast-response car and an ambulance crew. Sadly, a man was found dead at the scene.”
Scotland Yard told The Sun: “Police were called at 08:55hrs on 5 December to a church in St Petersburgh Place W2 after a 52-year-old man was found deceased. Next of kin have been informed.
“The death is being treated as unexpected but early inquiries do not indicate it is suspicious. A file will be prepared for the Coroner.”
