TRIBUTE has been paid to the courage of a former and inspirational Thurrock headteacher who continues to battle cancer while helping others in the world of education.

James Howarth was a popular head at the Hathaway Academy in Grays until he was forced to leave his post to continue what had already been a lengthy battle against cancer – a voyage he shared with pupils and parents to help them learn about dealing with illness.

Mt Howarth first told of his fight against lymphoma in June 2014 when he left the school for a few months to receive treatment.

He returned but was ultimately forced to give up the role in 2017 – but not before making a memorable address to pupils, guiding them towards a positive future.

Since leaving the headteacher's hand-on role Mr Howarth has continued to work as an advisor and consultant and has continued his work to inspire and help others.

This week he spoke of the latest stage of his cancer fight, which has seen him in isolation in hospital since June. But from his hospital bed he has still reached out and he used the experience to highlight the need for people to look ahead and anticipate and prepare for the worst of outcomes – so as to make living through them more possible.

He wrote: "I have now been in hospital since 24 June but if I reach CAR T cell therapy, the wait will have been truly worth it. It will give me a 35% chance of achieving remission.......if not, it is a little hard to think about. However sitting in my isolated room, I have had plenty of time to think.

"I did not take out Life Insurance for a whole load of different reasons, sadly some of them I clearly regret. The idea of my wife and kids not being provided with a lump sum of money to pay of the mortgage being the biggest.

"If you currently have children or other family commitments where you are the main person to bring in an income, please do not end up in my position.

"I have posted so so many times on here, I have found a company who will willingly help you to get the best possible protection for your family and your peace of mind. They are all qualified advisors and the best bit is, they are free to everyone, that combined with a guarantee of them not charging commission or fees for advice, makes it in my mind a no brainer.....They will find you the cheapest deal on the market.

"I have made it my mission, to stop people making my mistake. Please message me or comment and I will do everything I can to help you out."

His words on the Linked In social media platform have won him many plaudits, summed up by this from Hannah Crisp who said: "You're a real inspiration James! Keep fighting and thank you for continuing to think of others throughout. A really important message."