FAMILY and colleagues of a Gwent school teacher who died after losing a two-and-a-half-year battle against cancer paid tribute to a "genuine, clever and modest man".

Charles Nodder died on April 25 from a brain tumour, aged 57. The Fairwater High teacher, who had previously taught at Croesyceiliog Comprehensive for more than 20 years, was a well-known figure in the Cwmbran community.

His widow, Pat, from Selby Close, Llanfrechfa, and two children, Matthew and Nicola, said he would be greatly missed by everyone. They described him as a dedicated teacher who was committed to his pupils.

Mr Nodder also leaves four grandchildren, Gwen, 14, Felix, 11, Isobel, eight, and six-month-old Lula.

Pat said: "Charles was a perfectionist who could do anything. If people wanted anything, in school or outside, they would go to Charles first. "We couldn't go into town without someone who knew him from school saying hello."

Former Fairwater High colleague Ian Cole described Charles as "professional, caring, diligent, knowledgeable and fun".

Mr Nodder, a keen traveller and member of Croesyceiliog Canoe Club, taught at Croesyceiliog Comprehensive from 1973 to 1994, before joining Fairwater High in 1994. The design technology teacher designed the Fairwater school crest.

He retired from teaching in 2003 after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Mrs Nodder thanked staff at the Holme Tower Marie Curie Centre, in Penarth, who allowed her to stay with her husband during his final six weeks.

His funeral was held today at All Saints' Church.