A Bracknell school has issued a statement after it was closed to pupils and staff today.

Wildridings Primary School has confirmed it was closed today (June 13) due a sudden death within the school's community.

Headteacher Simon Cope announced the tragic death of much-loved site controller Andy Hey, who passed away whilst competing in an Iron Man competition this past weekend.

Tribute paid to Iron Man athlete who tragically died during event

Out of respect for Andy’s family and friends, headmaster Simon Cope decided to close the school for one day to give the community time to process the news.

The Wildridings Primary School headteacher said: “It is with a heavy heart that I can confirm our school was closed today due to a bereavement within our school community. Sadly, our site controller, Andy Hey passed away on Sunday, June 12. 

“Andy, known as Mouse to his close friends, was the heart and soul of Wildridings Primary School and an important person in the local community.  The staff, families, and children at Wildridings are devastated and in a state of shock.

“The local authority has been incredible and the support we are all receiving, including a number of Educational Psychologists on site, is superb in such difficult circumstances."

He added: “Andy passed away whilst competing in an Iron Man competition on Sunday.  The school has been closed today, Monday, June 12, out of respect for Andy’s family and to give our community time to process the news. 

“Andy was not only a site controller, he was a friend and part of our family.  His loss has not only affected the school but also the whole community. Our thoughts are with Andy’s family at this very difficult time.”

The school statement also noted a fundraising page will be set up in Andy’s memory to raise money for something sport-related for the children of Wildridings.