CHILDREN and staff at a Cambridgeshire school have been left deeply saddened after the death of a much-loved and respected teacher. Judith Wolverson joined Sawtry Junior School four years ago. She died on Friday, June 23, after falling down the stairs a

CHILDREN and staff at a Cambridgeshire school have been left "deeply saddened" after the death of a much-loved and respected teacher.

Judith Wolverson joined Sawtry Junior School four years ago. She died on Friday, June 23, after falling down the stairs at the home she shared with her husband Roger in Tansor.

David Smith, headteacher of Sawtry Junior School, said: "Everyone has been left devastated, upset and shocked by the sudden loss of a loved and respected teacher, colleague and friend.

"Judith got on with everyone and everyone loved her. She was a well-respected and loved member of staff and she will be sadly missed."

Mrs Wolverson had a passion for music and took responsibility for the school choir.

"She was a musician and played the piano and guitar. She loved taking music classes with the children and spending time with the school choir. She also had a real passion for the outdoors and loved playing with the children outside," added Mr Smith.

Charmayne Bailey, 19, who worked with Mrs Wolverson for five months as part of her teacher training and whose little brother was in her class, said: "She was a warm and friendly person and had a real passion for teaching. It was her that actually encouraged me to want to be a teacher. She made it look so effortless and fun.

"As you can imagine the children were extremely upset by the news of Judith's death. To find out that your teacher has died at such a young age is horrible and it has left the whole school shocked and upset."

Mrs Wolverson's Year 4 class of eight and nine year old children was told of her death by Mr Smith on the afternoon of the day she died. Since then, bereavement councillors have been working at the school offering support to the children. A collection has been started for a memorial to be placed at the school in memory of Mrs Wolverson.

Her funeral will be held tomorrow (Thursday) at Warmington Parish Church.