Heartfelt tributes have been flooding in for a much-loved school governor who died suddenly after being taken ill while cycling.
Popular Barnard Castle School governor Erland Rendall was found with his bike by the side of the road two miles from his Durham home as he trained for a cycle ride to raise money for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, a charity funding research to find effective treatments for motor neurone disease.
His sudden death at the age of 54 has rocked the school community, which he first joined in 2016 when his daughter Molly began attending Barnard Castle Preparatory School. He became a governor the following year.
His wife Jackie said: “Suddenly, unexpectedly my lovely husband was taken away from us far too soon. We as a family are heartbroken, shocked and deeply saddened.
“Erland was the kindest, most thoughtful, funny and a true gentleman, he was so loved by us and by everyone who met him. He would say to me ‘your time is the greatest gift you can give to everyone’, and he spent his life living by his word.
“Sometimes it just takes a moment of simplicity to remind each other of your love. We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love shown to us over these last few days. I’m thankful we enjoyed such a bustling and busy December together. We love you so much Erland.”
His daughters Molly and Rachael Longley and son Jonathan added: “Our beloved father died of a suspected heart attack while out on his bike, doing what he loved. We as a family are devastated and totally shocked by this cruel tragedy.
“He was so loved by us all. Erland was a kind, intelligent and incredibly hard working man who was known and respected by so many people across the globe.”
At Barnard Castle School, Erland chaired the strategy, development and marketing committee and championed the cause of all students, especially those with SEND.
Headmaster David Cresswell said: “Erland was someone of extraordinary generosity, with his time, but above all with his kindness.
“He approached life with optimism and energy, and he had a way of lighting up a room simply by walking into it, whether through his distinctive dress sense, a quick-witted remark or just his smile. I will miss him personally and we will all miss the wisdom and humanity he brought to the governing body.
“We are in shock at this loss, but Erland’s legacy will be a powerful reminder to live life to the full and to influence others with the same energy and love that he so naturally shared.”
