'DAD was one in a million'. That was the heartfelt message from the daughter of a dedicated school governor who has died at the age of 78. Kenneth Harding, known as 'Welsh Ken', died last Saturday from heart failure. Mr Harding, formerly of Lower

'DAD was one in a million'.

That was the heartfelt message from the daughter of a dedicated school governor who has died at the age of 78.

Kenneth Harding, known as "Welsh Ken", died last Saturday from heart failure.

Mr Harding, formerly of Lower Mardley Hill in Welwyn, was born on September 1 1930, in the village of Troedyrhiw, just outside Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales.

He was married to former teacher Gloria, 72, for 50 years.

They have two children, Alison Morrall and Andrea Cowie, 42, and four grandchildren, Daniel Cowie, Sophie Cowie, Ashley Morrall and Matthew Morrall.

Alison, of Willow Grove in WGC, told the WHT: "Dad seemed to touch the lives of everybody he met.

"He has left a very big whole in our lives and our hearts.

"He was a kind, generous and witty man and always had a smile on his face."

Alison added: "We have been completely overwhelmed by the flowers, cards and tributes we have received.

"Dad was one in a million.

"He was a very, very special man and will be very sorely missed."

Mr Harding had spent most of his career working in the public relations department for the National Coal Board before retiring.

He was a governor at Monk's Walk School in Knightsfield, WGC, and then Templewood Primary School in Pentley Park, WGC.

Brian Martin, headteacher at Templewood School, said: "Ken was always full of enthusiasm for everything we did and made a very valuable and much appreciated contribution to the life and work of the school."

Friend and county councillor Richard Smith praised Mr Harding's service to education, and said: "Ken was a fascinating chap and a great friend.

"I knew him for around 20 years and he was one of those remarkable people, a very knowledgeable person.

"He will be much missed."

For funeral details contact Austin's Family Funeral Directors, in High Street, Welwyn, on 01438 714686.