A MEMORIAL service has been held locally to celebrate the life of an inspirational head teacher from Lesotho.

Godfrey Kakande had played a major role in the building and success of the Teyateyaneng Junior Academy, with support from the Penarth and District Lesotho Trust (PADLT).

He was involved in a car crash in January of this year and sadly died on July 6.

A service at All Saints Church was attended by many of his friends and supporters.

It was led by Rev Canon Peter Cox, a trustee and the former chair of the PADLT.

Following opening prayers there was a “visual tribute” of photographs supplied by Lesley Cox the present chair of PADLT, from fellow trustees and members of the PADLT youth groups prompting tears and memories among many of those in attendance.

This was accompanied by sung version of Psalm 136 sung by a Abayudaya Congregation.

Memories of Godfrey were shared in spoken tributes from PADLT trustees Rosemary and Jeremy Dix, Dil Samuel and Nigel Gibbs.

They were followed by a youth branch film produced by Olivia Dwyer.

Michael Graham and Tim Cox, of the earliest youth group spoke of Mr Kakande's great smile and positive and endearing personality.

The mayor of Penarth, councillor Rosemary Cook, reflected on the bonds which had been created between Penarth and Teyateyaneng and the support that the town council had provided because of Mr Kakande's work.

All who spoke recalled an energetic man eager to help children, to give orphans a home and the best education he could.

Group chair Ms Cox concluded the ceremong by saying that the support of Teyateyaneng Junior Academy and the local people would continue.

The service ended with prayers the singing of a final hymn.