A former deputy head teacher and council chairman has paid tribute to Graham Taylor.

Three Rivers Council chairman Andrew Scarth, who taught Taylor’s daughters Karen and Joanne at Queens' School in Bushey, described him as a “true parent” who always “put his children above everything else”.

He said he was humbled every time Taylor visited the school. Despite having the reputation of a “great football manager”, Mr Scarth said Taylor was always modest and happy to be photographed with the students.

He said: “It never mattered how Watford Football Club were doing, Graham would always make time for his children.

“Even when Watford were competing in the FA cup, he’d make sure he came to their parents’ evenings.”

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Watford Observer:

Gade Valley District councillor Alex Michaels, Alison Scarth, Graham Taylor and Andrew Scarth

Mr Scarth said he was deeply shocked when he heard about Taylor’s death.

“I’m still saddened by the news; he wasn’t much older than me”, he said.

“He was such a great man; he was always chatting and laughing away with the kids, and just a nice guy to be around.

“Graham was always a kind, honest and cheerful personality who never looked down on anyone even though he was famous.”

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Mr Scarth said Taylor started a number of running events at the school.

He would help give out medals to all students as they crossed the finishing line, and award trophies to the winners.