CHILDREN and staff at a Workington school are mourning the loss of their “wonderful senior site manager.”

Gordon Shilton worked at St Joseph’s Catholic High School for almost 20 years.

Last week he died suddenly while on holiday in Jamaica.

His two daughters had also been pupils at the school where Mr Shilton worked.

Paying tribute to their father, they said: “Growing up with Gordon as our Dad we were never short of laughs and now we both have children of our own we’ve heard the same ‘jokes’ all over again.

“We’re privileged to have had such a wonderful man as our dad and we have so many years of memories to treasure forever.

“He will never be forgotten and always in our hearts.

“We are so overwhelmed and grateful for all the support and kind words we have received, it’s heartwarming and comforting to know that he was loved by so many, he will be a great miss to us all.”

Today students are celebrating Mr Shilton’s life by ‘wearing blue for Gordon’.

Children have been asked to wear something blue and the school is asking for a £2 donation.

Headteacher Jacky Kennedy said: “St Joseph’s Catholic High School is grieving for the loss of Gordon Shilton, our wonderful senior site manager.

“Gordon has worked at St Joe’s for almost twenty years and both his daughters came here.

“The students know him to be kind and caring with a good word for everyone.

“I have asked our students to look after the staff as we are hurting and very sad.

“Please remember Gordon’s family and friends today in your prayers.”

A special assembly was held when news of Mr Shilton’s death was announced.

The school will be speaking to his family to decide how to use the donations.

A book of condolences has been opened for students and staff to pass on their messages to Mr Shilton’s family.

Miss Kennedy added: “We continue to remember Gordon’s family and friends in our morning prayers.”

Details of the funeral have not yet been released.