A SCHOOL is mourning the loss of a devoted teacher, well-known in community sporting circles, who died after a long illness.

A special mass was held yesterday at St Augustine's School, Billington, in memory of PE teacher Sandra Coulter, who died on Sunday.

Mrs Coulter, 52, also taught at several other schools in the area during her career, including St Wilfrid's, Blackburn, and Rhyddings, Oswaldtwistle.

She was described by St Augustine's headteacher Anthony McNamara as dedicated teacher who gave much to the community both in and out of school.

She was renowned in the Clitheroe area and beyond for the time she devoted to playing and helping develop community sports, an interest she shared with her husband, John, and two sons, Simon and Matthew.

Mr McNamara said: "Sandra was a lovely person who was committed to getting the very best out of the children.

"She was devoted to her family but still gave generously of her own time to a wide range of extra-curricular sporting activities.

"Her warm, gentle manner and appreciation of a good joke made her great company with pupils and staff alike.

"She bore her illness with great courage and we will miss her very much."

She was a founder member of Clitheroe Netball League and for several years its president. She also played the sport at county level and was a qualified umpire.

Other interests included tennis and she was a member of Clitheroe cricket, bowling and tennis clubs. She took a leading role in Hyndburn and Ribble Valley school sporting tournaments to which she dedicated countless hours of her own time.

During her 15 years at St Augustine's, Mrs Coulter, who earlier taught at Ribblesdale High School and Bowland and lived in Clitheroe with her family, took on other posts of responsibility. She was COMPACT co-ordinator, to raise the achievement of Year 10 students, and work experience manager.

Christine Parkington, head of PE at St Augustine's said: "Over the years Sandra and I worked closely together.

"She was a loyal colleague who was always there to comfort children and fellow staff alike when they needed support even when her own health was failing.

"So many parents, children and staff will have their own special memories of her, especially her colleagues in the PE department."

Prayers and services for Mrs Coulter have been held at the school throughout the week this week and the funeral is at 12.30pm tomorrow at St Mary Magdalen's Parish Church, Clitheroe.

The family have asked for donations to be made to Cancer Research UK and East Lancashire Hospice.