Tributes have been paid to the former head of Mount St Joseph School, who passed away on Friday at the age of 85.

Sister Barbara Sexton, OBE, was highly respected during her time at the school, she took up the post as head in 1973 and retired in 1996.

She then went on to have play an instrumental role in the Destitution Project, helping countless asylum seekers living in Bolton.

Mrs Devany, headteacher at Mount St Joseph said: "Those of us who had the privilege of knowing Sister Barbara will remember her as a strong, kind heart, generous and determined lady who worked tirelessly to campaign and support the disadvantaged and vulnerable.

"Sister Barbara was instrumental in creating the inclusive ethos within our community that we continue to emulate each day with our students and staff.

"She was the Headteacher at Mount St Joseph for 23 years from 1973-1996, the longest serving Head of our school.

"Sister Barbara really enjoyed coming back to visit our school and recalling some wonderful stories about the Mount, remembering many staff and students who had been through the school.

"She will be greatly missed in our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sister Barbara, her family and friends at this time. May she rest in peace."

Father Lee Taylor, who was a pupil at the school from 1989 to 1994 has fond memories of Sister Barbara.

The former pupil stayed in touch with her and Sister Barbara attended his ordination eight years ago.

Father Lee said: "Sister Barbara could be very stern, but she was a remarkable woman and very intelligent.

"I was one of the first years to attend the school when it moved to the new building, they had fitted carpets throughout and I remember Sister Barbara telling us off for chewing gum and littering because it would get stuck in the carpets.

"Most people would have memories of her berating us during assembly.

"I left the school in 1994 but I kept in touch with her through phone calls and emails.

"Sister Barbara actually came all the way to Chelmsford for my ordination.

"She was really quite remarkable, I know a lot of people would like to attend her funeral but of course that it is not possible at the moment.

"I will be holding a requiem mass over live stream at Llangollen Group of Anglican Churches so those who wish to pay their respects can."

Elsie Peel is a long term volunteer at the Destitution Project.

She said: "Sister Barbara founded the charity BRASS around 20 years ago, from which the Destitution Project evolved.

"Many of the people we have helped have said how she was always smiling, and that meant so much to them.

"She helped innumerable people and attended court cases with asylum seekers.

"Sister Barbara was a very warm person, she did not just give advice, she made them feel like human beings. She was a multi-faceted person."