Tributes paid to teacher who died after he was swept out to sea

Pupils of Huthwaite All Saints C of E INfant School paid tribute to sports teacher Ethen McKen , who died after he was reported missing in the seai n Bulgaria. Pictured is pupil Rocco Celeini, 7.

Ethan McKen, 24, was travelling with friends and was at the Sunny Beach resort on the Black Sea, on Saturday when it is believed he was hit by a wave and was unable to return to shore.

It is understood Mr McKen, a PE teacher at All Saints C of E Infants School at Huthwaite had been on a Thomas Cook 18-30 holiday with friends when the tragedy happened on Saturday.

His body is believed to have been recovered on Sunday.

The gates at All Saints School was opened for a short time this morning to allow pupils to leave flowers and tributes.

A tribute from the school said; “Mr McKen was a much loved teacher by all the children and staff he worked with.

“He had a great sense of humour, always gave his best had a smile on his face always willing to help and a pleasure to work with.

“We are thinking and praying for his family and friends at this very sad time.

“Mr McKen will always be in our hearts and will be remembered with fondness by all students at All Saints C of E School.”

Parent Angeline Guadagni was paying her respects along with her son Rocco, 7, a pupil at the school.

She said: “We couldn’t believe it - I had to explain to Rocco what had happened - it is so very sad that the young children he taught will never see him again.

“He was always smiling and very kind.”

Mr McKen a specialist PE teacher, from Basford ran after-school clubs for football and rugby and played for Bulwell FC.

The school is planning a Church service in his memory and will celebrate his life with pupils on Monday September 7.