Frank Lerner, a well-known headteacher at several schools in Greenwich and a "huge figure in the community", has died.

Schools, MPs, councillors and local residents have paid tribute after Mr Lerner passed away on Tuesday, March 24, after a short illness.

His funeral took place on Tuesday, 31 March, and a number of people from the local community paid tribute.

Abena Oppong-Asare, the MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said she was burning a candle all day long in memory of the long-standing community member.

She said he was "known and loved by many in the community, and was always a support to me."

Dan Thorpe, Greenwich Council leader, was amongst the councillors to pay their respects on social media, stating that Frank was a "huge figure in our community," particularly in his years of service to Plumstead Manor School.

He said: "I know many of us across Greenwich were deeply upset to hear that Frank Lerner had passed away.

"It was Frank’s funeral today and I know when this is over many, many people will want to make sure the contribution he made to our borough is properly celebrated.

"Sending thoughts love and prayers to his family."

Mr Lerner led a distinguished career in education, working at a number of schools in the borough and beyond.

He started as a teacher in Hackney, then moving on to Foxfield Primary school in Woolwich.

Frank worked as deputy head at Southwold Primary School, headteacher at Fossdene Primary School in Charlton and also a consultant for Greenwich Education Inspectorate and Advisory Service.

Then, as Chair of Governors at Plumstead Manor School, Mr Lerner oversaw a major development program transforming the school.

THis was recognised when the new sixth-form centre was named as the Frank Lerner Building.

Another to pay tribute was the Greenwich Yacht Club, who said Frank would be "remembered for his generosity, his kindness and his frequently expressed care for others."

He was join in 1993 and was the club's Commodore from 2006 and 2008, winning trophies and navigating them through very uncertain times.

"He was a great commodore who will be greatly missed."