A TEACHER is facing a ban for pursuing a relationship with a student 30 years his junior.

Andrew Bell, a history and archaeology teacher, was sacked when bosses at Colchester
Sixth Form found out he had repeatedly contacted the girl for nine months.

Mr Bell, 50, appeared before a National College for Teaching and Leadership conduct panel hearing this week and was found guilty of unacceptable professional conduct.

The girl's mum saw one text which read: “I’m in Paris again and I’m remembering how much I was in love with you.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t show it then, I won’t hassle you any more, but I just wanted to finally tell you what I wanted to say for so long…..x andy.”

Her mum contacted the college, on North Hill, Colchester, and Mr Bell was suspended.

Mr Bell told the hearing the word “love” had been used informally.

He admitted the facts of the case, but denied they amounted to unacceptable professional conduct.

See Friday's Gazette for the full story.