COLLEAGUES of a young teacher who was killed in an accident near Okehampton last week have spoken of his dedication and enthusiasm to his job and his commitment to his family. Michael Pyne, 28, of Sticklepath, died when his vehicle was in collision with a lorry on the A386 at Sourton near the A30 interchange last Wednesday morning. He had been a teacher at Milton Abbot Primary School for the past four years, after originally training in law. Staff there have expressed their shock and sadness. Headteacher Peter Jones said their first thoughts were with Mr Pyne's wife, Jane, whom he married in August 2005 and his family — seven-month-old Jessie and his step-daughters Beth, nine and Claire, seven. 'Mike was just 28 but he was very much a family man and he was happily making a home with the girls in Sticklepath,' said Mr Jones. 'He joined our school in January 2003 and soon proved himself as a dedicated and enthusiastic professional. I believe he had a great future in teaching ahead of him.' A class teacher and a maths co-ordinator, who was beginning to take a role in ICT, music and sports, Mr Pyne had a sense of fun which made him a natural to take charge at school discos and organise special events such as Red Nose Day, said the headteacher. 'He was a keen sportsman, a supporter of Southampton FC and Plymouth Albion and he could often be found in all weathers training our football and tag rugby teams,' he said. 'Mike had just moved into a new classroom and was excitedly planning new ways to make the most of his surroundings and get the maximum benefit for his pupils. 'We all feel privileged to have worked alongside Mike over the last four years. We will all miss him.' Within the last three years Mr Pyne had moved back to Sticklepath where his family have lived for generations. Chairman of Sticklepath Parish Council Paul Grey said there was a great sense of loss in the community: 'This is a small community and Michael's death has been felt badly by a lot of people. 'It is very sad for the family and a great loss to this village.' Anyone who witnessed the crash or has any information which may help the investigation is asked to call the police on 08452 777 444, quoting reference 225 17/1/07. RIGHT: Michael Pyne pictured with his wife, Jane, their seven-month-old daughter Jessie, and his step-daughters Beth and Claire.
