Staff and children at a school near Thornbury have remembered a much-loved father who died one year ago.

Mark Knapp passed away in February 2018 after suffering a ruptured aorta aged just 34.

He died in Southmead Hospital, Bristol, the workplace of wife Keri Vizard, who is a palliative care nurse.

Their daughter Casey used to attend Tytherington Preschool and their son, Parker, still does.

The school held a ceremony in the garden of the school on Friday, March 1 to commemorate the first anniversary of Mark's death.

Children helped plant an apple tree and a memorial plaque was also installed.

Victoria Barker, Chairman of the school said: "We know how respected the Knapp and Vizard families are in the local community, as well as in our small school.

"Not only was Mark a much-loved father and friend, he was Secretary for our committee-run preschool. He fulfilled this role in his usual way - with good cheer, smiles and humour - and always did a fantastic job.

"We think the apple tree is fitting as his family grow and harvest apple trees, and Mark grew up around them.

"The tree will also grow with and continue to provide a talking point for the children.

"As Mark was so fond of cooking, we also thought the fruit of the tree will be used by children in their cookery sessions.

"Tytherington Preschool were very grateful recipients of some funds donated at his funeral and we thought this memorial would be an appropriate way of spending some of this money.

"We feel that this lasting reminder will help share some of the joy and happiness that Mark seemed to spread to all around him."

Keri said: "Mark was a big supporter of Tytherington Preschool. They have been incredibly supportive of both me and the children since he died and we are very grateful to them for that. We hope that the children will enjoy watching the tree change and grow and eventually use the fruit for cooking."

The school is also helping to raise awareness of Made A Mark, a charity Keri set up to provide support for bereaved children.

A charity auction is being held on March 22 with everything from hotel stays to Aston Martin factory tours up for grabs.

There will also be live music from Bristol harmony trio Just 3.

Tickets are £10 and include a cheese board, dessert platters and soft drinks. People can bring their own alcohol.

The auction is taking place at St Helens School, Alveston. Doors open at 8pm for an 8.30 start.

For tickets contact madeamarkcharity@yahoo.com or 01454 416948. For more details go to madeamarkcharity.com.