A SCHOOL has raised more than £7,000 in memory of a learning mentor who worked there for 26 years.

Pupils, staff and parents at Windrush Primary School in Bentham Road, Thamesmead, have been fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support in honour of Maralyn Willmot who died in May this year at the age of 57.

Mrs Willmot, of Cole Close, Thamesmead, worked with vulnerable children at the school offering help, support and advice both in and out of the classroom.

At a ceremony on September 24 pupils gave her family a special memory book with photos of her time at the school.

They also presented Macmillan's regional fundraising manager, Judy Spence, with the money they raised.

Speaking after the presentation, headteacher Jo Marchant, said: “The initial plan was to run the campaign for one month - and we were so thankful that Maralyn was able to attend our first fundraising event, a disco.”

“Tragically, Maralyn passed away on May 11. But in total the school raised an amazing £7,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

"It’s a testament to Maralyn and the importance she had in all of our lives.”

Meanwhile Mrs Willmot's husband, Dave, aged 62, said: “What a wonderful tribute this has been to her. You can see what the children here think of her.”

The school held a summer fete as well as sponsored walks, cycle rides, and a sponsored crazy-hair day to raise the cash which will go towards supporting a Macmillan cancer nurse at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

Macmillan's Judy Spence said: "I have never accepted a cheque of this size from a school before. It’s a huge amount and it will make a huge difference to the lives of people living with cancer.”

To make a donation to the charity visit macmillan.org.uk

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