Friends of a chemistry teacher who died from motor neurone disease have paid tribute to him on the anniversary of his death.
Peter Bellenger, who had taught at Brighton College, died at the age of 48 last year after being diagnosed in 2016.
Steve Marshall-Taylor, the head of senior school at Brighton College, said Peter was a “powerful inspiration” to pupils, staff and parents.
He said: “He was a brilliant teacher, a truly wonderful friend to many and one of the most caring and humble people we have known.
“As his condition progressed, he demonstrated to us all the remarkable power in allowing others to see our vulnerabilities and modelled how important it is to ask for and accept help when we need it.
“His smile and cheeky sense of humour remained right until the end. We all miss him enormously.”
Brighton College formally opened the Peter Bellenger School of Chemistry in 2020, named in his honour.
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While at university, Pete rowed for the Oxford Lightweights crew and, in his memory and to raise money for charity, some of his ex-crewmates, friends and teaching colleagues are teaming up to row 100 kilometres.
The team will set off from Henley rowing course and finish at the New College Boat Club in Oxford, where Pete’s sister and parents will be waiting to cheer them home.
The rowers, who will set off on Friday, May 12, aim to raise £100,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, which works to improve access to care, research and campaigning for those living with or affected by the condition.
The crowdfunder has already raised more than half of the target, with more than £55,000 donated.
One of “Pete’s team” preparing for the endurance event said: “No ordinary friend, Pete invariably put the needs of others before his own.
“Pete’s wisdom, faith and courage inspired those around him - not only to take on this challenge but to lead better, kinder lives.
“Even as his own needs grew and motor neurone disease diminished his extraordinary capacity to support others, it never dimmed the generosity of Pete’s smile.”
Donations can be made at https://petebellengerchallenge.muchloved.com/.
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