It was an emotional experience when students paid a visit to their former teacher who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Nearly 20 students and former colleagues from Alban Wood Junior school attended Keith Sampey’s art exhibition on April 11 after he called for people to go and see him.

Keith, 74, who lives in Watford, was the headteacher of the school from 1989 to 2005.

He described seeing his students as “emotional and lovely”.

Watford Observer: Left to right: Samantha Colbourn, Keith Sampey and Phoebe Webb, who were both former students. Left to right: Samantha Colbourn, Keith Sampey and Phoebe Webb, who were both former students. (Image: Rebecca Furner)

Keith added: “It was strange trying to identify them as they walked in, they are now all mums and dads.

“It was absolutely wonderful to see them and find out what their lives are like.”

The father of two and grandfather of four said people left “flattering comments” about his art and him as a headteacher.  

One of his students, Louise Fife who attended the school from 1999 to 2002, told the Watford Observer Keith’s art was “fantastic”.   

Watford Observer: Left to right: Chris Webb who used to teach at the school, Louise Fife who was a pupil and Keith Sampey. Left to right: Chris Webb who used to teach at the school, Louise Fife who was a pupil and Keith Sampey. (Image: Rebecca Furner)

She said: “It was really nice to see Keith again.

“I didn't recognise him at first. He's changed so much but we had a great laugh and with the other students too.”

Chris Webb, a colleague of Keith went to the show and praised Keith for his work at the school.

She said: “He turned the school around and the pupils absolutely loved him.

“He was, and still is a fabulous man. His artwork was kept simplified for the pupils but as can be seen through his exhibition, he is truly a talented artist.”

Watford Observer: Lisa and Sarah Spinks (right) both former pupils and their mother (left).Lisa and Sarah Spinks (right) both former pupils and their mother (left). (Image: Rebecca Furner)

Keith was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer and was told in February he only has six to nine months to live.

As part of his bucket list, he decided to showcase his art and it was at the opening on March 26, attended by friends and family that he realised people from his school days were missing.

Keith’s eldest daughter, Rebecca Furner said it was “moving” to have seen so many people from Alban Wood Junior school turn up to the exhibition.

Naomi Sampey, his youngest daughter, described it as “overwhelming” and said, “we are incredibly proud of him”.  

Keith’s final show will be on April 18 at Fellowship House Gallery, 136A Willifield Way, Hampstead Garden Suburb from 2pm to 4pm.