Bradford headteacher's inquest to open after tragic death

There was a huge outpouring of grief following the death of 61-year-old Jeremy Richardson, who was headteacher at Beckfoot Thornton School.

The inquest will be opened at Bradford Coroners' Court. 

Emergency services were called to Byron Street, off Barkerend Road, at around 6.40am on June 22, where there had been a crash involving a vehicle and Mr Richardson, who was on a bicycle.

Police at the scene of the crash

He was taken to hospital with serious injuries but tragically died.

Police said the driver of the vehicle stopped at the scene and enquiries remain ongoing.

In a touching tribute, Shirley Watson, Chief Executive Officer of Beckfoot Trust, said the school was transformed under his leadership.  

She said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Beckfoot Thornton’s Headteacher, Jeremy Richardson, on Thursday, June 23, following a cycling accident.

Police blocked a number of roads off (Image: Newsquest)

"Our community has lost an incredible leader and a wonderful man, and his wife and three children a much-loved and devoted husband and father.”

She said his impact and influence would live on in all those who knew Mr Richardson as a friend, mentor, colleague, teacher or headteacher.

Scores of tributes were also left in a book of condolence set up by the Telegraph & Argus.

One message said: “Students, staff and parents all look to a head teacher to lead, a leader to be strong and confident, Jeremy Richardson did this with ease, but also with compassion and care which is the difference between been a good leader and a fantastic leader.

“He had time for everyone alike and what made him unique and special was how he would treat each individual the same regardless of whom that was.”

Kelly Tatlock wrote: “Jeremy, you were a kind and selfless person, and a wonderful leader with absolute integrity. I will never forget you giving me your time, feedback and support.”

Deanna Drake spoke of how she knew Mr Richardson as a young mathematics teacher at Fartown High School, Huddersfield.

She described his teaching methods as “ahead of the times” and that he was known for his “thorough and analytical approach as well as for his courtesy and charm”.

Simon Atkin said: “A wonderful gentleman. Only knew him for a short time but it was clear from first contact that he was caring, well liked and a real leader.”

Mr Richardson was a former Ofsted inspector and Department for Education advisor.

He became the headteacher at Beckfoot Thornton School initially on an interim basis in April 2017. He was appointed executive headteacher two years later.