TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘wonderful’ 43-year-old Pembrokeshire schoolteacher who died with tragic suddenness at the weekend. Mother-of-three Tina John (formerly Thomas), who lived in Narberth, was taken ill while in Amroth on Friday evening.

Because of the seriousness of her condition, she was airlifted to the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, where she sadly passed away on Saturday afternoon. The mission was carried out by an RAF Sea King helicopter which was in the area and was diverted to land on Amroth beach following a call for air assistance from paramedics.

Ms John was the reception class teacher at Prendergast CP School, Haverfordwest, having previously taught at St Aidan’s Church in Wales VA School, Wiston. Said Paul Hughes, the headmaster of Prendergast: ““Tina was a dedicated individual, held in the highest esteem by myself, her teaching colleagues and parents and, of course, also by her pupils who loved her dearly, “Tina was passionate about children and education and indeed the world in general – she loved the outdoors.

“She is going to be dreadfully missed.

“We told the pupils the sad news before parents left and we have also been visited and comforted by the local minister, Reverend Geoffrey Gwyther.

“We hope to open a book of condolence so that people can pay tribute to her memory and, in time, we will think about a fitting memorial to a wonderful teacher.”

St Aidan’s School also remembered the popular teacher during a confirmation service in the village church on Sunday. Ms John leaves her children Zoe, aged 17; Jordan, aged 16 and Rhys, aged 14, together with her parents, Ann Adams of Pembroke and Peter John of Begelly and brother Adam John of Cold Blow.

The funeral arrangements had not been finalised as we went to press, but further enquiries may be made with the funeral directors, E.C. Thomas and Son, on 01834 831876.