PRIME Minister David Cameron paid tribute to a highly respected Alvechurch teacher, killed in a horrific French coach crash, in Parliament earlier today, (February 22).

During Prime Ministers Questions, Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid raised last Sunday’s coach crash, in which Alvechurch Middle School teacher Peter Rippington died after the coach he and 49 others were travelling in crashed near Chalons-en-Champagne.

The MP asked if the Prime Minister would join him in expressing sympathy for all those who have been affected, and in wishing all those still being treated in France a swift recovery and a speedy return home.

The Prime Minister replied: “I know that Peter Rippington was much respected in the local community and at the school.

“He will be hugely missed.

“I am sure that the thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone in the House will be with my honourable friend’s constituents and everyone who has been affected.

“Our consular staff in France continue to provide support to all those who are still in France.

“Our ambassador, Sir Peter Ricketts, has visited passengers in hospital and is liaising with the local authorities.

“We will do everything we can, with the French authorities, to get people home safely.”