Former Norwich Schoolboy Killed In Algerian Terror Attack

23 January 2013, 17:02 | Updated: 23 January 2013, 18:07

Sebastian John went to Norwich School between 1997 and 2004.

A total of 37 foreign workers, including six Britons, are believed to have died at the remote desert facility - part-operated by BP - which was overrun by heavily-armed terrorists.

A spokesman for the independent Norwich School confirmed he attended between 1997 and 2004.

He had been on an Arkwright scholarship, which is for engineering. 

Sebastian then went to Loughborough University where he achieved a first class honours degree in civil engineering in 2009. 

It's understood that he lived in the Nottingham area since leaving university.

The Foreign Office issued a statement from the family of Sebastian John which said he would be eternally missed.

His wife Nicola John said: "Sebastian was the most amazing person. He was a fantastic husband, father, son and brother. There won't be a moment that goes by where we won't think of him.

"We are so proud of Sebastian for all he achieved in his life. He was taken away from us too early and in the most tragic circumstances. 

"We will always love him, he will be forever in our hearts and eternally missed.

"Please respect our privacy at this difficult time.''

Chris Brown, head master at Norwich School until 2002, paid tribute to Mr John.

He said: "It is ten years since I left Norwich School but I can still see him so clearly in my mind's eye. His openness of manner and approach, his interest in design and engineering stay with me.

"On entering the sixth form he won an Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, a national award for promising work in Design and Technology and he was an able contributor to life at the school.

"He distinguished himself by gaining a first at Loughborough and became well regarded as a young civil engineer.

"A life cut off at such an age with such promise is always a heart rending loss.''

Current headmaster Steffan Griffiths said the school was saddened by the loss of ``such a talented former pupil'' in such unhappy circumstances.

He added: "Our thoughts in the coming days and weeks will be with Sebastian's wife and family.

"Sebastian was a strong achiever at this school, at university and in his career.

"It is desperately sad that his exciting promise has been cut short, but we will do what we can to help the family remember the very positive effect he has had on our community.

"The school is in touch with the family and will continue to offer all possible assistance at this time''.