AN educator once described by former Secretary of State for education Michael Gove as “the best headmaster of the best grammar school in the country” has died.

Mike Spinks joined Urmston Grammar School as headmaster in 1999 and was the longest serving head of the school since its amalgamation in 1988. He passed away last Friday, just 12 months since his retirement.

Mr Spinks was singled out for praise by Mr Gove, describing him as 'the best headmaster of the best grammar school in the country', at the Palace of Westminster’s Grammar Schools’ celebrations.

Mr Spinks also sat on several national education steering groups and expert panels and regularly meetings with government ministers and the Department for Education.

The school's chairman of governor's, Eric May said: "He was kind, caring and there for everybody and would help anybody. He had a dry sense of humour which helped make him a wonderful man.

"As chairman, I worked closely with Mike and he was the type of chap who would sit down with the lads and had his dinner with them, and it was his way of getting to know the students. He knew the names of all 900 of them and was a great headmaster."

In a glowing retirement tribute to his teaching and leadership skills, the students and staff said: "You have created the atmosphere that makes Urmston Grammar so special. You put individuals at the heart of everything you do, wanting every individual to reach their full potential - students and colleagues.

"You have always made people feel welcome, remembering their names and putting people at ease. You have the ability to make each person feel important. You have a unique sense of humour, which you are always willing to share with others.

"As the longest serving head of Urmston Grammar since amalgamation, you leave a great legacy. You will be enormously missed by students, staff and governors - past and present."

Under his dynamic leadership the school became Trafford's first Science College in 2004 and as one of the country’s 'high performing specialist colleges', was invited to take on a second specialism as a language college in 2008. In September 2010 it became one of the first converter academies in England.

Between 1984 to 1990 he was a TVEI coordinator at Levenshulme High School and from1986 to 1988, worked as an advisor for Manchester Education Committee.

He became deputy head of Priestnall School, Stockport, from September 1990 until 1999, after being appointed to Urmston Grammar as its head teacher.

On Twitter David Law said: "So sad that Mike has passed away he was an inspirational man and a wonderful person."

Tom Alexander said: "Rest in peace Mike Spinks, Albus Dumbledore, of Urmston Grammar."