Tributes have been paid to a St Ivo school teacher who died in a car crash on his way to work last Friday.

Mark Jones was died as a result of an incident on A1123 road that runs between Earith and Haddenham. He taught film and media studies at the school where he had worked since September. He had previously taught at King Edward Vl in Bury St Edmunds and at Samuel Ward Academy in Haverhill.

In a statement the school said: “At St Ivo we are devastated by the sudden and untimely loss of an outstanding teacher and friend. In his short time with us he made an enormous impact on all those he came into contact with.

His enthusiasm for his subject and for life was huge and infectious. His irreverent sense of humour and sheer positivity rubbed off on all those he worked with.

Mark threw himself into life at St Ivo. He brought high levels of skill to his work in film and media introducing many new ideas and linking us with industry professionals. He was also an excellent pianist and was playing for our production of West Side Story.

Students and staff have received access to counselling and support this week. We have opened a book of condolence and today a group of students released butterfly balloons as a tribute to reflect Mark’s belief in reincarnation. We will be planning a more permanent memorial for the future. St Ivo School is a richer place for having had Mark work with us and we miss him dearly.”

Cambridgeshire police, the East of England Ambulance Service, and Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service crews were called to the A1123 at about 7.50am after reports of serious collision.