By 
TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved former school vice-principal in Eskra.
Stephen Colton was a member of staff at St Patrick’s Primary School for many years. Mr Colton, who lived in Dromore, died at Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry on Wednesday.
His funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
As well as teaching, Mr Colton also wrote a weekly nature column for the Irish News.
A spokesperson for Eskra parish said he would be ‘profoundly missed’.
“Stephen was held in the highest regard by all who knew him. His love of nature, gentle wisdom, gift for writing, and contributions to The Irish News made him a voice of reflection and insight.
“Stephen’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched – in the classroom, in his writing, and in the natural world he cherished so deeply.”
There have been many online tributes to Mr Colton.
Grainne O’Hagan wrote: “So many fond memories of Master Colton, a true gentleman that had a massive positive impact on everyone he taught.”
Helen O’Hanlon wrote: “I did my teaching practice with Stephen many years ago. An absolute gentleman.”
Patricia Campbell wrote: “A gentle mentor to children. Someone who opened all our eyes to the wonder of nature.”