KING'S School headmaster Matthew Armstrong has died suddenly.

A statement from The King's School, Worcester said: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of our inspirational headmaster, Matthew Armstrong. Matthew passed away suddenly on Sunday morning after he suffered a pulmonary embolism."

Hugh Carslake, chair of governors, added: “We will pay tribute to Matthew’s exceptional contribution to the vibrancy and success of the Foundation and its community in due course. In the meantime our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Kate, his parents and family.

Matthew’s visionary leadership has left the school in a strong position and the Governors are confident that Mr Jon Ricketts, the current senior deputy and acting headmaster, will take the school forward, building on Matthew’s legacy.

"Further announcements will be made as details of arrangements are put in place. Please be assured that we will do all we can to support the school community during this difficult time."

Jon Ricketts, acting headmaster, added: “The whole school community has been deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic news. Matthew was a passionate and visionary Headmaster and was well respected by pupils, parents and his colleagues.

"We are all working to support each other, the wider King’s community and Matthew’s family through this sad time.

"A book of condolences will be available in the senior school reception from tomorrow and we would welcome any thoughts or messages to be shared there.”

A spokesman for Worcester Cathedral said: “The Dean and Chapter of Worcester Cathedral are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of Matthew’s sudden death.

“Matthew was not only an outstanding head, but he and Kate have been active members of the cathedral community and strongly supportive of the cathedral choir. Matthew served as a member of the Cathedral Council. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kate, with Matthew’s family, and with the whole School community.”

Mr Armstrong had been headmaster at The King’s School for five years. He joined from Charterhouse School, where he was assistant headmaster for 10 years. Before that, he taught at Winchester College having previously worked for McKinsey & Co.

In November 2018, The King’s School was announced in The Sunday Times Parent Power Survey as one of the top 150 performing independent secondary schools in the country, ranking 124th and receiving 7th place in the West Midlands top 20.