Hundreds of tributes have poured in for an "inspirational" teacher who was always smiling.

Mark Dallas, who was assistant headteacher at Greenacre Academy in Walderslade, died of cancer on Saturday.

He lived in Princes Park his whole life with his dad Nicky Dallas. As well as becoming a much loved teacher at the school in Walderslade Road, he was also a pupil at the school.

His sister was there to support him every step of the way with his illness and said he smiled every day.

Nicola Dallas of Rochester said: "He went to work everyday, even after the diagnosis. It happened on Saturday and I did not leave his side.

"He had treatment for three weeks, then he came home with me and I cared for him.

"I took him into hospital on Tuesday and he asked for end of life care.

"I think he had enough of not being able to do the things he used to, he wanted control and didn't want the cancer to take over.

"He stayed strong through everything, even when the cancer came back after he had been given the all clear.

"He was only 37, he was an inspirational man, he always had time for everyone.

"He loved being with his family, he had me, dad and our older brother Colin.

"Although he didn't have a family of his own, I used to say to him when are you going to start a family, and he would say, 'I don't need to, I've got 1,000 children at school, they are all my children.'

"That's just the kind of kind, loving man he was."

Shelly Bridger, Headteacher of Greenacre Academy also paid tribute to her colleague.

She said: "We are all heartbroken and it was with great sadness that we shared the news to colleagues and students that Mr Dallas, ex-student, ICT teacher, ex Head of Sixth Form and current Assistant Headteacher passed away on Saturday.

"Mr Dallas has worked for the Academy for over 20 years and during his career had transformed the teaching of ICT within the academy.

"His kindness and willingness to help around the school made him a teacher that was loved by students, staff and the wider community.

"His kindness and willingness to help around the school made him a teacher that was loved by students, staff and the wider community..."

"His bravery in the face of his recent illness was an inspiration to all. Our love and thoughts go to his family and we are all deeply upset at this loss from our Greenacre family.”

On Facebook, there are currently 106 comments from well wishers.

Jason Winter said: "Will definitely miss him. Turned my education around and got me back on the right path.

"He was good friends to not only myself but to my mum too. A true fighter and was taken too soon."

Nathan Hemp said: "Rest in peace Mr Dallas you legend. You were an amazing teacher, one that will never be forgotten."

The Dallas family have not yet made plans for his funeral, however details will be published on KentOnline so all his pupils can come along.

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