Richard Ayidah is so treasured by his students they set up a website in his honour to share their memories of his classes.

Mr Ayidah did not know about it until his friend in Ghana spotted it and told him the good news.

He was humbled to be nominated by a pupil for his hard work as a maths teacher at Wimbledon College in Edge Hill.

Mr Ayidah has worked at the school for the last nine years and said he really enjoys it.

The nominee said he has been put forward in the best teacher category for inspiring students to achieve high grades and raising money for charity.

The nominee said he gives up his time to help pupils and always has a smile on his face.

As well as working full time, Mr Ayidah hosts extra lessons, both at lunch-time and after school, including those for Year 11 students who are preparing for GCSE exams and those working towards A Levels.

Mr Ayidah, 42, said: "The job is a passion for me.

"I don’t wake up and think I am going to work.

"I love being there."

He said the staff are really supportive and the school is a good place to work.

There is still time to nominate someone special.

Nominate them here at www.wimbledonguardian.co.uk/mertoncivicawards or fill out a form in the Wimbledon Guardian newspaper.