Friends and family are defending a popular teacher at a Vancouver boarding school after he was arrested on child pornography charges.

Until yesterday, 40-year-old Christopher Charles Ingvaldson ran the social studies department at St. George's School. On Friday morning he was arrested, and the school immediately relieved him of his duties.

Police say Ingvaldson faces four charges related to the possession and distribution of child pornography.

Ingvaldson's father Charles, a wealthy businessman who lives in South Surrey, said his family was overwhelmed by the allegations.

"He's our son and we love him," he said. "This has just happened and it's too emotional for us."

Andrew Haigh played with Ingvaldson on the B.C. and Canadian field hockey teams for more than 15 years. He said he was "quite shocked" by the charges.

"He's a great guy. He's a good team member. It's so hard to imagine," he said.

Haigh said Ingvaldson also coached children at the field hockey team out of the Vancouver Rowing Club. Calls to the VRC and staff were not returned.

The charges follow a two-week investigation that included search warrants being executed at Ingvaldson's home and at the school. Police say the investigation began when they received a report alleging that someone was accessing child pornography at school.

Authorities say there is no indication any students from the school or any other local children have been at risk.

With files from The Canadian Press and CTV British Columbia's Jon Woodward