It is with great sadness that we pass on news of the death of Dr Paul Kirtley on 27th February. He had been very ill for some time.

Paul’s connection with Abbotsholme began when his daughters, Becky and Laura, joined Abbotsholme in the 1990s. Paul was also the school doctor for many years. In 2002, he was elected as the Parent Governor, and went on to become an Ordinary Governor in 2005.

In 2001, Paul assumed the role of Chair of Governors, a position he held until 2017. Paul was a man of great integrity who was totally committed to the well-being and success of the school, and who showed a deep and personal concern for all of its people.

He saw Abbotsholme safely through some very testing times, and was held in high regard by all. His death is a sad loss. We send our condolences to all of Paul’s family, but particularly to his wife, Val, and to Becky and Laura.

The funeral will be held at 11.45 am on Monday 11th March in St Oswald’s Church in Ashbourne. All are welcome.