A FORMER headteacher from a school in Taunton has passed away. 

Tributes are pouring in for Elliott Furneaux, the former head of Heathfield Community School.

Mr Furneaux also worked at Holyrood School in Chard.

One of Elliott's sons, John, posted on his Facebook page that his father has passed away after a short illness. 

He said that his dad was a great man, a loving husband, and a role model to him and his brothers. 

Elsewhere on the social media sites, former students and friends have described him as an "amazing" and "wonderful" man.

Matthew Collins, headteacher at Holyrood Academy, said: "We are all deeply saddened to hear of the death of former Holyrood colleague Elliott Furneaux.

"He was a highly respected individual who made a huge contribution to the school.

"Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends."