Robert Greenwood, known as Bob, was given a free place at Solihull in 1946, and fully entered into school life as an enthusiastic member of both the drama society and naval cadets, as well as being house captain for athletics.

Bob died this summer, aged 83, leaving his entire estate to the Silhillian Fund, which provides full bursaries for hard-working and talented pupils who would be unable to attend for financial reasons. It is likely this bequest will pay for two sixth form places in perpetuity at the school.

Headmaster David EJJ Lloyd has hailed the “extraordinary generosity” of Mr Greenwood. He said: “While we were saddened to hear of his death, it was deeply moving to discover Bob had left his entire estate to The Silhillian Fund for bursaries.

“It is clear the friends Bob made and the time he spent at Solihull School were of profound importance to him throughout his life, as he has also left behind a remarkable archive of his time here. His old school reports were even found in his bedside table.”