Warm tributes have been paid to Physics teacher Richard ‘Dick’ Rostron, 89, who died recently in Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
Mr. Rostron spent over 30 years as a popular and respected member of staff at King Edward VII School, Lytham, retiring in 1995.
Dick Rostron born in Chapel-en-le-Frith, Derbyshire, attended school in Buxton and University in Sheffield. After teacher training he joined King Edward’s and quickly became noted both for his passion for Physics and his enthusiasm for outdoor pursuits.
Julian Wilde, former Head of King Edward’s, praised Mr. Rostron’s sustained commitment to the School, in and out of the classroom.
“Dick, with his enduring passion for Physics, always expected the highest standards from his students and was regarded by all staff as a genial and hardworking colleague."
He pioneered, with Headmaster David Heap, the purchase and development, of the station house at Ribblehead, overlooking the famous viaduct.
He made it into a residential centre for outdoor pursuits, particularly caving and hill walking. Boys who were aiming for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award found it ideal.
Dick was also a keen climber, particularly in Switzerland, and led school several expeditions to the Alps with English teacher Chris Hawkes.
"I felt fortunate to have him on my staff. ”
Dick Rostron and his wife Gwen lived in Rossendale Road St, Annes with their two sons, Mark and Tony, who attended King Edward’s. In retirement the Rostrons were strong supporters of school plays and concerts and of social events for former staff.
All will be welcome at Mr. Rostron’s funeral which will be at Lytham Crematorium at 2.00 pm on Friday 16th May, followed by refreshments at The Vic on Church Road, St. Annes.
The School flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of the funeral in Dick Rostron’s honour.