The former headteacher of a Swindon school has died after battling cancer.

Keith Defter was the head of The Commonweal School on The Mall for 19 years.

He was admitted to hospital with leukaemia a few weeks ago and died at the age of 63.

In a public letter published on the school’s Facebook page, current headteacher Chas Drew spoke fondly about his predecessor.

“I am writing with the sad news that Keith Defter passed away last week,” read the letter.

“Keith was Headteacher at Commonweal for 19 years. When he retired, he continued to work with us as coordinator of the Education Strategy Partnership. As recently as January Keith was in school to support staff training.

“Keith was a dear friend to many and will be remembered very fondly by the whole school community. So much of what Commonweal is, is Keith's legacy.

“He was the driving force behind Commonweal becoming a Performing Arts School and behind the establishment of C6.

“He was the man who as much as anyone showed us the values to live and work by. Keith was only 63, until very recently he was as active and energetic as ever, he was admitted to hospital with leukaemia some weeks ago.

“The school’s condolences go to Keith’s family. There is a book of memories in reception for anyone from the school community who would like to share their thoughts.”