Stretford Grammar School has shared an update with parents following Michael Mullins’ death on Monday evening
Michael Mullins(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Stretford Grammar has shared an update on the school’s ‘tremendous grief’ following the death of its beloved headteacher Michael Mullins.
The long-serving head Mr Mullins was tragically killed in a crash in Altrincham on Monday night (April 20). He was cycling home from the school when he was struck by a car at around 6pm on Paddock Lane.
In a new message issued to parents today (Thursday), deputy headteacher at the school Mrs Baxter said staff and students were ‘dealing with tremendous grief’. She said the school was ‘working hard to support our community of students, staff and parents’ following Mr Mullins’ death.
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Mrs Baxter shared the message as she confirmed the school’s upcoming GCSE awards evening would have to be postponed. “I know you all will be very disappointed, but I hope you can understand the reason for my decision”, she added.
“When we do meet you again, we will all be in a stronger place, ready to celebrate the wonderful GCSE achievements of our students.”
Mr Mullins, 56, had been the school’s headteacher for 17 years and lived with his family in Weaverham, Northwich. The school was closed on Tuesday as a mark of respect, but is understood to have reopened for pupils on Wednesday.
Floral tributes in memory of the father and grandfather were attached to the school’s gates following the tragedy, together with a shirt from Stretford-based Longford Park Junior Football Club. In a statement posted to social media on Wednesday, the club said it was ‘deeply saddened’ at the shock news, calling him ‘an advocate for grassroots football and our community’.
Floral tributes placed outside Stretford Grammar School(Image: Manchester Evening News)
In a statement issued through Greater Manchester Police after his death, Mr Mullins’ family said: “Our loving Dad, husband, Brother-in-law, ‘Diddy’, Uncle, Son in law, passed away last night after being knocked off his bike. He was devoted to his family and our lives will never be the same.
“A gap has been left in our hearts and within his role as a headteacher of Stretford Grammar school. Our Dad gave us fantastic memories growing up including a trip getting lost at night around Washington D.C but it was in his role as a Grandad where he truly excelled.
“At this time the family request privacy. Our love and memories of Michael will know no limits. We will love him forever, to Saturn and beyond.”
Trafford Council leader Cllr Tom Ross said: “We are deeply saddened to hear the devastating news about the death of Michael Mullins and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and colleagues. Mr Mullins was a popular and passionate headteacher who was dedicated to providing the best education possible to the pupils at Stretford Grammar School over many years, and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
“Trafford Council is working closely with the school to provide support and guidance to teachers, pupils and parents and carers at this awful time.”
GMP said the vehicle involved in the crash failed to stop, but four people, three men and a woman, were later arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. The M.E.N has contacted GMP for an update on the arrests.