A blue plaque to honour a global artist was unveiled at his former school.

George Michael fans gathered at Bushey Meads School in Hertfordshire at 12pm today to witness the unveiling and hear tributes to the Faith singer, who was a former pupil.

George, who died on Christmas Day 2016, was a sixth form student at Bushey Meads where he formed a famous musical partnership with close friend Andrew Ridgeley.

The blue plaque was made possible through a joint effort by Bushey Meads executive principal Jeremy Turner, Tracey Wills of the George Michael Appreciation Society, the Heritage Foundation, and George Michael “superfan” Terry Daniels.

Before the plaque was revealed, Terry spoke with great emotion to the crowd of about 100 “lovelies” (the word George used to describe his fans) saying George was “one the greatest musical talents of all time” inspiring an entire generation to “live by their own rules”.

Terry added: “I am proud to call myself a fan. Since his passing we learned of his huge generosity.

“This is the first permanent memorial to George, recognised by his family.”

"Superfan" Terry Daniels (centre) and George Michael Appreciation Society founder, Tracey Wills (left)

Watford Observer:

Throughout his life George donated to various organisations and most notably to Childline, though it was rarely publicised.

Terry gave tearful thanks to those who made the event possible, including the plaque makers Leander Architectural. She added: “George, you have been loved.”

Executive principal Jeremy Turner thanked everyone for coming and praised the school for its commitment to the arts, saying: “Everybody can be fantastic at something.”

Hertsmere's deputy mayor and Conservative councillor Brenda Batten unveiled the plaque around 12.30pm after telling of Andrew Ridgeley playing piano in her family home when he visited as her paperboy.  

Once unveiled, scores of fans lined up to be photographed, many wearing the popular “Choose Life” T-shirts.

One superfan, Amlia Gonzales, had flown in from Spain just to attend. She said: “It is something really worthwhile – he deserves a plaque.

“His legacy, his teachings, his music will always be around.”

Tracey Wills of the George Michael Appreciation Society said: “It has been really emotional, everyone worked so hard to make this happen.

“This is something for George, for his kindness. His death was so tragic, and I wanted to do something for him.”

The Wham! Singer was born in East Finchley on June 25, 1963. He lived in Stanmore and later attended Bushey Meads School.

Before many left for drinks at The Three Crowns pub in Bushey, Terry Daniels said it had been a “truly emotional” day, adding: “I am thrilled. It’s for the kids, it’s for the school, this is an historic event.”