AN inspirational PE teacher who changed the lives of hundreds of school children has lost his battle with cancer.

Mick Ennis, who taught at Blessed Trinity Roman Catholic College, formerly St Theodore’s High School, for 38 years died at Pendleside Hospice yesterday morning.

The 61-year-old had one of his kidneys removed in June and underwent chemotherapy in an effort to beat the disease, but the cancer spread.

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His daughter Claire Ennis-McGurk, paid tribute to her ‘very fun and very caring’ dad.

The 32-year-old said: “He wanted to live his life to the full. He was amazingly positive all the way through, and I know he would want us to be too.

“It’s left a massive gap in our lives but we have many memories of him. He was a good person and a much-loved family member who has always been there for us.”

Staff, governors and pupils were told of the news yesterday afternoon.

Headteacher Richard Varey said: “Mick was a much-loved member of staff. He devoted many years to helping pupils both through his teaching and pastoral work.

“Mick was a true champion for the children he worked with and will be greatly missed by all.”

Born in Burnley to parents Eileen and Brian, Mr Ennis was the oldest of eight siblings.

He studied at St John’s and St Theodore’s schools before embarking on a teaching career.

Mr Ennis spent almost four decades at St Theodore’s and Blessed Trinity, during which time he guided eight football teams to Lancashire Cup finals, and to one national final.

He also managed cricket teams to three Lancashire Cricket finals, and taught England cricketer Jimmy Anderson.

He was also secretary at Burnley Belvedere Cricket Club, where he also played for 20 years.

Club treasurer Dan Young said: “I spent a lot of time with Mick. He was just a great all-round guy and nothing was too much trouble. He would do anything for anyone.

“He was one of life’s good guys.”

In September, Mr Ennis’ brother Anthony biked 100 miles in Scotland for Macmillan Cancer Research.

And just over two weeks ago, more than 1,200 people watched a charity football match at Burnley Belvedere Football Club in Mr Ennis’ honour.

The crowd saw the Vintage Clarets take on three St Theodore’s Old Boys sides who learnt their craft under Mr Ennis.

Supporters including former St Ted’s students and present-day Blessed Trinity pupils, employed as Pendleside Hospice collectors, turned out to back the cause.

On the day, former student Chris Casper, who went on to play for Manchester United’s infamous ‘Class of ‘92’ side, said: “It just goes to show what people think of Mick, not just as a fantastic teacher but also as a fantastic person as well. It was a privilege to be a part of it.”

Organiser Nick Palich, who left the school in 1994, set an original target of £5,000 for Pendleside Hospice.

But the match and subsequent auction, which saw sporting memorabilia sold, raised over £15,160.

Nick said: “It sunk in afterwards just how much Mick meant and the positive effect he had on so many people.

“He did not like to take any praise. He just got on with his job.”

Mrs Ennis-McGurk said: “The charity football match and everything that came from it, such as the messages of support, really made a difference.

“It’s so good to feel appreciated and not many people get to see what difference they made while they are still alive.

“It meant a lot to him and it meant a lot that he could be there.”

Head of education and welfare at Burnley FC Academy, Pat McKiernan, said: “I worked with Mick for 28 years and I have known him since we were at teaching college together.

“Mick was really honest in everything he did. He was selfless and totally committed to supporting individual boys in their sporting development by spending huge numbers of hours coaching them.

Mr Ennis was survived by his wife of 36 years, Elaine, their daughter Claire, 16-week-old granddaughter Helena, his mum Eileen, five brothers, and two sisters.

Funeral arrangements have still to be made.