A CATHOLIC college which was saved from closure by Father John Caden will rename itself after the “giant among men” in recognition of his service to the school.

Father Caden was the chairman of governors at Carmel College in Darlington for 25 years, and the school announced yesterday (Sunday, February 24) it is planning a name change.

College principle Maura Regan said: “Fr John Caden has been an inspirational man in all aspects of his ministry.

“He touched many generations by his constant care for the sick, his anguish for the poor and his defence of the weak in society.

“As chair of Governors he steered the school from threat of closure in the 1980s so that now, in 2013, it holds the position of the top performing Catholic comprehensive school in the country and one of the top five state schools nationally.”

On Friday, March 1, the school will become the first Catholic school in the Hexham and Newcastle Diocese to turn into Multi Academy Trust and its name will change to the Carmel JC Trust.

Ms Regan said: “JC for John Caden in order that this most inspirational, compassionate and humble of men will be forever remembered by future generations in a school that owes its very existence to his work.

“On a personal note, Fr Caden has been my parish priest since I was nine years old - 47 years.

“He has been my friend, my mentor, my inspiration, my confidant and my conscience but most importantly a father figure who has nurtured me and helped me develop the qualities for a life of service to the students in my care.

“I will be forever grateful that I had the privilege of knowing such a giant among men and for having the opportunity to learn at the feet of such a master.”

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