A bench dedicated to the memory of Ernest Bevin College's inspirational former headteacher Naz Bokhari has been unveiled at Morden Cemetery.

Mr Bokhari, known as Mr Tooting because of his dedication to the town, died last year on March 1 aged 73.

The former headmaster helped generations of youngsters succeed at Ernest Bevin and was credited with turning around the fortunes of the school during a 17-year spell in charge starting in1985.

Speaking on Saturday while unveiling the bench, daughter Hina said: "Our father always said it was not what you do in your life time that really matters, it is the legacy you leave to benefit the generations which will follow. "We are looking to launch an annual award - The Naz Bokhari Award.

"An award for students who achieve university acceptance despite adversity, who had to strive harder than others due to personal or social issues - this will be the most important way to remember our father."

Former pupil, Osman Deen, now a photographer with the Wandsworth Guardian, said: "Mr Bokhari maintained a high standard of self value amongst us, I remember how, when he introduced the school council, the impact it created - it offered both staff and students an opportunity to air ideas.

"He and staff at Ernest Bevin were very professional and inspired a lot of ex-students to pursue their goals and achieve them."

A founding member of the Muslim Teacher's Association, Mr Bokhari went on to receive an OBE for services to education in 2001, and was later awarded an honorary fellowship of the College of Teachers.

A memorial for him will be held in March.