POIGNANT tributes have been left at the site where a 38-year-old assistant headteacher plunged to his death.

The floral arrangements, laid mainly by pupils of Hagley Roman Catholic High School, where Ian Campbell had taught since 1997, remembered a "true legend".

One lengthy note, by a Year 12 pupil called Rachel, read in part: "Sir, so this is it. I was saving all this for when I leave but I guess I'll have to tell you now...

"You knew how to make things easy to understand... the right way way to put it, so we understood everything.

"We'll never forget you. Thank you for being such an inspiration to us all. You are a true science legend. Goodbye."

Another note merely read: "Wherever you are, I hope it is where you want to be."

Other letters remained in sealed envelopes to be read by close family and friends only.

Mr Campbell, of Townley, Warndon Villages, was discovered at the foot of the CrownGate car park at around 7.40am on Monday.

Police are treating his death as "unexplained" and have appealed for witnesses to come forward. Ted Hammond, the headteacher of the school where Mr Campbell taught, said everyone was "shocked and saddened" by the "tragic event."

"Ian was a very successful and talented young teacher who was popular with his colleagues and greatly admired and respected by the pupils," he said.

"The school community wishes to offer its condolences and sympathy to his wife and family at this devastating time."

The inquest into Mr Campbell's death was due to be opened this afternoon by Worcestershire Coroner Victor Round in Stourport-on-Severn.

Police have asked anyone with any information on the incident to call 08457 444888, quoting incident number 44s/100105 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.