Staff, governors, pupils and parents have said a sad farewell to a well-respected head teacher.

Ill-health led to Borden Grammar School’s head Harold Vafeas taking early retirement.

The 58-year-old was diagnosed with cancer last summer. Shortly afterwards he began a sixth-month course of chemotherapy, returning to school as and when he was well enough.

It was hoped he would resume the role full-time this September, but he has decided to leave so he can focus on his health.

He said: “Ideally, I would have liked to have continued for another two or three years but the need for more intensive treatment in the autumn means it’s the right thing for everyone.

“It’s created a great deal of extra work for my colleagues and the school needs a full-time head teacher.

“I’m going to miss lots of things – the people, working with the staff, students, governors and the parents. I will miss it all but I will keep in touch.”

Mr Vafeas has been at the helm of the school since September 2004. Before that he was deputy head at Dane Court Grammar School, Broadstairs, for 12 years. Prior to that he was head of sixth form at Highsted Grammar School.

A leaving ceremony was held on Tuesday, where he was presented with gifts. It was meant to be held in the hall but due to the hot weather guests were seated outside.

The dad of three, who lives with his wife Maggie in Margate, said: “They were extremely generous. I received all sorts of things but two of the highlights were a two-night stay at the Maiden Tower at Leeds Castle which was bought by the staff and a laptop from the governors and leadership group.

“I also received two DVDs created by several students. It includes film clips from over the past nine years of their trips abroad. In terms of a send off I couldn’t have asked for better.”