A SCHOOL is to close for an afternoon to mourn a much-loved and respected teacher who died after a battle against cancer. Rosanne Pollott, who was 50, taught English and was head of year seven at Kent College in Canterbury.

For last 17 months Mrs Pollott had been undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer. But her death, due to a complication, was still unexpected and has shocked and saddened the school. Mrs Pollott, moved to the area in 1990 with her husband, Geoff, and three children, Joanne, Richard and Lizzy.

While Mr Pollott took up a post at Wye College, she joined Vernon Holme - Kent College's junior school - as year four teacher and boarding school mistress. She transferred to the senior school in 1997 and two years ago was made head of year seven, playing an important role in settling in new pupils.

Head teacher, Edward Halse, said: "If you didn't know Rosanne had cancer, you would have never guessed from her looks, behaviour or attitude. She was determined to put her health problems aside and continue to live life to the full. No one had a bad word for her and everyone who knew her can say how she helped, supported or inspired them."

Mrs Pollott was also a keen member of the Canterbury Choral Society.

The school will close on Tuesday afternoon (November 20) for a funeral service in the college chapel at 2pm followed by a cremation at Barham for family and close friends. Her family are also planning a celebration of her life and work in the near future.