School head dies at meeting

The headteacher of a top Black Country private school has collapsed and died after suffering a heart attack during a meeting with parents. Mark Coleman, aged 50, was the popular headteacher of Mayfield Preparatory School in Walsall.

Six parents who are all doctors rushed to try to resuscitate Mr Coleman while waiting for paramedics to arrive.

He was rushed to Walsall Manor Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

It happened on Thursday night and yesterday the Sutton Road school was closed as a mark of respect.

Mr Coleman's wife is also believed to work at the school. They have two sons.

Rugby fan Mr Coleman had led the school for two years but had taught there since 1996.

A school statement said: "Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife and children. His death was totally unexpected. He will be missed by everyone and was very popular."

The board of governors voted yesterday to make Garry Cook the acting head teacher.

Solicitor Charles Underwood, who knew Mr Coleman through his role as clerk to the governors, said: "I was at the school yesterday and staff and pupils are shocked."

Pranay and Kajal Paw, whose three children all attended the school, paid tribute to the "excellent headmaster, loved by parents and pupils alike."