CLAYDON: Get well soon.

That is the message today from staff and pupils at a school in Claydon after hearing the news their headteacher is in hospital after being rushed in for emergency brain surgery.

Gary Pilkington, head at Claydon Primary School, was taken ill while playing football on Sunday morning.

The 40-year-old was playing for his regular team Taverners FC against Holbrook Swan in the Flare Recruitment League Premier Division clash when he started complaining of a “burning pain” at the back of his head.

After paramedics were called to Reade Field in Holbrook the teacher was transferred to the specialist neurological unit at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, where it is understood he is being treated after suffering a bleed on the brain.

A spokesman for the hospital said Mr Pilkington’s condition is now stable.

But as the news spread of the much-loved head teacher’s condition staff and pupils at the school in Lancaster Way sent their messages of goodwill, urging him to get better soon.

Stepping in, in Mr Pilkington’s absence Mary Ashcroft, deputy headteacher, said: “Everyone at Claydon Primary School is missing Gary and we wish him a speedy recovery.”

Meanwhile, concerned team-mates sent their own messages to a “team stalwart” and “dedicated player”.

Club secretary Bob Bullamore said Mr Pilkington has been playing for the club, which is based at Greshams Sports and Social Club in Tuddenham Road, for many years.

“He has been a stalwart member of Taverners for many years,” he said. “He has played many, many games for us.

“He is a utility player, he can play any position you ask him.

“Everyone at the club wishes him well and a very speedy recovery, we are looking forward to having him back.”

And a spokesman for Holbrook Swan FC said: “We hope he makes a quick recovery, everyone at the club wishes him the best.”

n Send your good wishes to Mr Pilkington and his family. Write to Your Letters, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail evening starletters@eveningstar.co.uk