AN INSPIRATIONAL director of music is retiring after nearly 40 years’s service at a Suffolk school.

Peter Crompton joined the Royal Hospital School in Holbrook as organist and assistant master in 1975 and quickly became involved in all areas of school life. He had a resident assistance role for Nelson House, was housemaster of Raleigh House and taught afternoon games three times a week as well as carrying out his commitments to the music department.

He was appointed as the director of music in 1984.

He founded the Holbrook Music Society and Choral Society with the aim of bringing music to the wider community and introducing the school to a diverse range of musical talent.

During his time at the school, he has encouraged a love for music in thousands of young people and developed performances to the highest level in the community and at prestigious venues across the UK.

Mr Crompton said: “It has been my passion to pass on my love of music and to inspire.

“I am honoured to have had the opportunity to have an impact on every child that has been to the Royal Hospital School in the past four decades particularly through whole-school congregational practice when the Holbrook Sound comes into its own.

“All I can say is, it’s been a ball.”

He plans to concentrate on his own playing and composing music during his retirement.

In recognition of his dedication to inspiring young people at the school, he has been given the honorary title of Organist Emeritus.

Mr Crompton, who frequently gave organ recitals at St Paul’s Cathedral and the Royal Albert Hall, will be replaced as director of music by the accomplished organist William Saunders.