James Brindley murder: Aldridge School pays tribute to former pupil stabbed to death after night out
More tributes have been paid to murder victim James Brindley from his former teachers.
David Mountney, headteacher at Aldridge School, has spoken of his shock at the death of James, a former pupil, just days after 15 year old Spencer Hurst, another pupil at the school died after getting into trouble at the lake at Ryders Haves Mears.
Mr Mountney said: "It has been a most difficult week for Aldridge as a community, and for Aldridge School which serves as part of the heart of that community.
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"No one could have predicted that in just five days two young people would lose their lives in shocking ways and the community mourns their passing.
"It also cares for those left behind; in empathy and support to the families, friends and those caught up in the sorrow of the past few days.
"We, as Aldridge’s school, will offer all our pupils close care and support and help them to learn from these events the importance of the strength that comes from being part of a caring and giving community, in our school and in Aldridge."
James was on his way home after a night out with friends when he was stabbed in an attack which lasted just seconds, police said.
It is believed the 26-year-old was attacked in the Little Aston Road area, in Aldridge, just before midnight on Friday.
He was found on Aldridge High Street and was comforted by four schoolboys who were on the way home from their prom. Police said James died at the scene in his parents' arms after they had rushed to his side.
Teachers from Aldridge School have added to the growing list of tributes for the much loved victim.
Mrs Gemma Milward, subject leader for psychology and sociology, said: "James was a cheeky and lovable student who lit up the classroom with his energy.
"All of us who remember teaching James have fond memories and are deeply saddened by this tragic event in our community."
Mr Jamie Lowe, design faculty leader, said: "James was a member of my first ever GCSE class so holds a special place in my memory.
"He was a big personality in the class and had a fantastic group of friends.
"He was a talented artist and had a great sense of humour, people really enjoyed being in his company.
"He would gain great satisfaction from winding me up and generally having a good time in lesson, which we all did.
"Above all I remember him for being a caring person, he always took time to listen to his friends, offer advice and he would do anything for them.
"From my understanding this is a quality that has continued since leaving school."
Mr Gary Morton, faculty leader for business communications, said: "I started my career at Aldridge School in 2005 and when you speak to other teachers they will often say 'you never forget your first GCSE class'.
"On Saturday when James’ name was released by the Police that is exactly what happened.
"Immediately my mind took me back to 2005 to my first GCSE class in year 10.
"Although James put a front that has social life was more important than his academic life you could always tell he cared.
"His attitude towards his teachers and his peers made him who he was and made him so memorable.
"He was someone I could rely on to cheer me up and ‘keep me on my toes'.
"He was a pleasure to teach and it was a privilege to have know him.
"My thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time."
