Pupils go the extra mile to help teacher diagnosed with cancer

HUNDREDS of pupils and supporters of a teacher diagnosed with cancer are supporting him by organising and taking part in a fundraising walk.

- ABBIE WIGHTWICK

Richard Tunnadine, a teacher at West Park Primary, Porthcawl, pictured above, was diagnosed with cancer and has been undergoing treatment

Richard Tunnadine, who has taught at West Park Primary in Porthcawl for 23 years, has an aggressive form of leukaemia. He has endured multiple rounds of chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant.

Diagnosed in 2021, he was in remission for nearly two years and back at work, until the cancer returned last year. Mr Tunnadine has spent much of this year travelling to The Christie Hospital in Manchester, taking part in clinical trials.

“For over two decades, Mr Tunnadine has been at the heart of West Park Primary School,” the school said in a statement. “A passionate teacher, mentor, and rugby coach, he has inspired generations of children with his infectious enthusiasm and unwavering commitment. Beyond the classroom, he dedicated evenings and weekends to supporting his pupils, and during the pandemic, he was a source of stability and comfort for children of critical workers.”

Now, the school’s pupils want to give something back to their teacher.