Maths teacher Allan Chiles was given a musical farewell at his funeral on Tuesday.

Students from Malmesbury School performed songs, poetry and instrumental music at the service for the former head of department and deputy head.

Mr Chiles, who was regarded by many at the school as a ‘creative and innovative teacher’ with a ‘warm, patient manner’ and a ‘terrific sense of humour’ was working part-time when he died at the age of 63.

The Rev Neill Archer, vicar of Malmesbury Abbey who led the service, said: “It was a beautiful atmosphere; some really fond memories of Allan’s life were shared.

“Clearly it was a very moving occasion and the community really came together to say farewell to someone who was very well-loved.”

The keen sportsman and avid reader was born in Yorkshire in 1947 and worked as a bus driver before moving to London to become a teacher.

He later joined Malmesbury School in 1973 where he spent most of his career until he fell ill last year.

Colleague deputy head Mr Andrew Butterworth, who gave a euology, said: “Allan was a fine teacher, dedicated, thoroughly professional, absolutely committed to his students.

“He loved mathematics, the sheer beauty of it, and he communicated this love to his students.

“Many Malmesbury School students owe a great part of their success in mathematics to Allan’s skill and dedication.”

Mr Chiles leaves a wife Katherine, children Samantha, James, Nicola and Anna, and granddaughter Ellie, aged seven.

Donations to Cancer Research and Dorothy House Hospice were made in lieu of flowers.