Tributes have flooded in for an inspirational teacher who "made an impact" on many people's lives.
Anthony Sykes taught science at Sutton Academy in St Helens for 22 years and was also a Labour councillor in Ashton-in-Makerfield. The 51-year-old died on September 30 after an illness.
After the news of his death, tributes have poured in for Anthony describing him as "brilliant" and someone who "always" made people smile. Headteacher at Sutton Academy, Paul Willerton, said: "The academy is finding it difficult to come to terms with the loss of Mr Sykes, a teacher here at the academy for 22 years.
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"Due to the nature of Anthony's illness, it was news we had been expecting but it has shocked our community. Anthony thrived in front of a class, engaging his students in the subject he loved - Science.
"Anthony genuinely cared about people. He made an impact on the lives of so many staff and students within our community, we will miss him dearly. The academy has opened a book of condolences and are inviting staff, students and parents to contribute stories and memories of Anthony."
The Ashton-in-Makerfield Labour Party also paid tribute to Anthony. They shared a poignant story of how the 51-year-old delivered medicine on his motorcycle during the pandemic for people who could not get out.
A spokesperson said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our friend and colleague, Cllr Anthony Sykes, who died on Friday after a long illness.
"Anthony died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family and our thoughts are, of course, with them during this very difficult time. Anthony was a hardworking local councillor who always had the interests of Ashton at heart.
"He was never afraid to get his hands dirty when something needed doing around the town and was often out, brush in hand, clearing vegetation or removing fly tipped waste and during covid delivering medication on his Harley Davidson to people who couldn’t get out.
"No job was too small for him and he always felt privileged to represent the town. However, he was most proud of his work on Ashton Heath, where he brought his background in ecology and science to ensure the biodiversity on the Heath was maintained and preserved.
"Anthony will be sadly missed by all who knew him family, friends and colleagues and will be a great loss to our town. Rest in peace Anthony Sykes 1971-2022."
Other tributes on Facebook read: "Great teacher and great guy, very sad news. Rest in peace Mr Sykes. Deepest condolences to his family and friends."
Another person also added: "Anthony was my science teacher in high school. So shocked to hear this news. He was a brilliant teacher and always made us smile. RIP Anthony and much condolences to the family."
A third person also said: "My thoughts are with his loved ones during this hard time. He was great friend a noble and honorary gentleman who had the passion to help others. I am so glad I got to meet this inspiring great guy will be missed very much Cllr Sykes RIP."
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