A SCHOOL has paid tribute to its former site manager who died when he was run over by his own car.
Colin Fitzgerald, 72, of Tulse Hill, died on August 4 last year from injuries sustained three days earlier in Spurgeon Road, Upper Norwood.
Mr Fitzgerald worked for 27 years at Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School in Upper Tulse Hill, whose business centre bears his name.
Following his inquest at Croydon Coroner's Court last Thursday, the school's head teacher, Lascelles Haughton, has paid tribute to a "man of deep integrity".
He said: "Colin Fitzgerald is an important part of the Holy Trinity history.
"Colin served our school and its community as the school Site Manager for over 27 years.
"His warm and friendly personality made him endearing to the pupils, staff, governors and families.
"He was more than our Site Manager: he was faithful, committed and a man of deep integrity.
"As Headteacher, I was pleased to honour his contribution to Holy Trinity by naming our school business centre as the Fitzgerald Centre, in recognition of the valuable role he played in the life of Holy Trinity School."
Croydon Coroner's Court heard on Thursday how Mr Fitzgerald was fatally injured after being run over by his own car on August 1.
He had returned to the car, parked in gear on a hill, after a hospital appointment, and leaned in to switch on the ignition, causing the car to move and injuring him, the court heard.
Mr Fitzgerald was taken by ambulance to hospital, but died there on August 4.
Croydon Coroner Dr Roy Palmer recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.
Mr Haughton added: "We were all very moved and saddened by his sudden death, but we take delight in remembering the light that he has left in our hearts and minds.
"His legacy will live on."
