New street named in memory of headteacher

The lane behind St Leonard’s Premier store will be called Palmer Place in memory of Melvin Palmer, who taught at the comprehensive school for 34 years.

Mr Palmer was a Thrybergh student and returned to the school after university — via a spell at Wingfield School — as a PE teacher, before going on to become head of school.

Tributes after his death in December 2021 described him as a consummate professional, exceptional teacher and generous human being.

Palmer Place will comprise two pairs of semi-detached properties, under construction by Halbie Homes.

Cllr Michael Bennett-Sylvester, RMBC ward member for Dalton & Thrybergh, said: “There was such an outpouring of affection from the community following his death that it just seemed natural to propose his name when the opportunity for a new street name came.

“I am happy to report this has been accepted by the developers.”

Thrybergh Academy headteacher David Burnham added: “I’m delighted that RMBC have supported the request to dedicate this development to Melvin Palmer.

“Melvin’s contribution to Thrybergh, both through the school and the community, is unprecedented.

“The thousands of teachers and staff he trained over the years each carry part of his character within them and the young people he taught will never forget him.

“Melvin was Thrybergh to the core, from attending the school as a student to becoming its head of school.

“He was an exceptional and charismatic teacher and leader. All of us at Thrybergh Academy are thrilled that his legacy and name will live on.”