Tributes have flooded in for a young geography teacher who died after suddenly collapsing at school.

James Pettifer, 31, became ill and collapsed at Sacred Heart Language College, in High Street, Wealdstone, last week.

The popular teacher and head of year was rushed to hospital but died on Friday.

Tributes to the teacher, known affectionately by students as “legend”, have been left on a Facebook page set up by girls from the school in his memory.

Tashaa Graham said: “Sacred Heart will never be the same without you Mr Pettifer, was heartbreaking going into the school today.

“Seeing everyone going to show their respect just shows how much of a legend you are.”

Shante Ashmeade added: “Mr Pettifer was one of the funniest teachers and people I knew.

“He made my time at Sacred Heart that little bit more bearable and absolutely hilarious. He'll be sadly missed by too many people to imagine.”

Another tribute read: “He was a man that was loved by everyone that knew him - family, friends, students, colleagues, team mates and so on.

“He was an inspiration to everyone with his daily enthusiasm, joy and humour.

“He was taken too soon, being only 31-years-old. He will be greatly missed by everyone.”

Flowers and cards have been left outside the school in memory of the 31-year-old, who was engaged.

A life-long Brentford football supporter, both Bolton and Brentford fans held a 60-second applause in his memory in the 31st minute of Saturday’s match.

Brentham Cricket Club also paid its respects to the teacher as it postponed its match on Saturday.

A left-handed batsman and enthusiastic fielder, James joined Brentham after leaving Ealing CC and soon became a popular member of the club.

A tribute on the club website read: “The joy of being associated with Brentham Cricket Club has been dimmed by the news of the sudden and premature death of one of its greatest assets, James Pettifer.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his parents, Charlie and Loretta and his brothers, Michael and Ryan.

“Lately he had found love with Helen, gained a good position in his school and it seemed that life was set fair for him.

“His tragic loss has robbed the Club of someone who’s DNA had Brentham written through it and we will miss him and his insane laugh more than we can say.”