A school in Croydon is hosting a special service of remembrance after one of its teachers who worked there for nearly five decades died last month at the age of 70.

Born in May 1935, Peter Warren Green worked at Royal Russell School in Coombe Lane for 48 years after joining in 1958 as a teacher of geography and politics.

After carrying out several roles in the school Peter, who lived in Gravel Hill with his wife and three children, later became the school's examinations officer and senior teacher.

He also played an active role in the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) which he entered when he was a 13-year-old at Christ's College in Finchley.

After a seven year stint as contingent commander, he retired last summer and was honoured by a full parade of cadets from the school.

Mr Warren achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 1998 and was commended by the director of reserve forces for his unrivalled contribution as the longest serving CCF officer in the country, receiving the fourth clasp on his medal of service at a summer parade.

Remembering their former teacher, a Royal Russell School spokesman said: "Peter was an outstanding schoolmaster, held in affection and high regard by colleagues, pupils and parents.

"His contribution in the classroom, as a member of the senior management team and in extra curricular activities played a major role in the success of the individual pupils and the school as a whole."

The service of remembrance will be held this Friday at 5pm and will be attended by colleagues, pupils and parents past and present.

It will take place in Royal Russell School's chapel of St Christopher and all old "Russellians" are invited to attend.

Mr Warren's family and friends will attend a private funeral.