THE sudden death of a popular young teacher has left staff and pupils at two Kent schools devastated. Glynn Davies, a teacher at Chatham Grammar School for Boys, died during a visit to his girlfriend's family in Yorkshire.

His parents Lynn and Margaret Davies, both teachers at King's School in Rochester, were on holiday in America when they heard of the tragedy. Mr Davies, who was in his early 20s, had been a full time geography teacher at Chatham Grammar for half a term, having served one year as a student teacher.

His funeral is due to take place at Rochester Cathedral at 3pm on Friday, November 9, and he will be buried in Wales the following Monday.

David Marshall, head of Chatham Grammar, said: "His death is a tragedy for his family and our thoughts are with them. Nobody would expect to lose a son at such a young age. During his time at the school he forged special relations with children and staff alike. He loved geography and thoroughly enjoyed his teaching. He had a very promising career ahead of him."

Mr Davies had previously been a pupil at King's School, where he won colours for rugby, cricket and hockey. He played cricket for Kent Under-19s and the Welsh Universities, and also represented Wales at small bore shooting.

Dr Ian Walker, head of King's School, said: "He was a positive, cheerful, robust young man, who was well liked by everyone. When you spent time with him you came away feeling better for it. We are all devastated."