TRIBUTES have been paid to the former headmistress of one of the region's leading private schools.

Helen Hamilton, whose funeral is tomorrow, was headteacher at Polam Hall School in Darlington for 16 years before retiring in January due to ill health.

Mrs Hamilton, who was 57, died in her sleep on Sunday, April 27, at her family home.

Bill Goyder, chairman of governors at Polam Hall school, said he was extremely saddened by her death.

He said: "After 20 years of dedication to Polam Hall School, 16 of which she was headmistress, Mrs Hamilton retired in January of this year due to ill health.

"As a prominent and well-respected member of the community, she made a vast impact at Polam Hall, leading the way in its flourishing development.

"Girls of all ages and backgrounds, who have been through the school, came to know Mrs Hamilton as a mentor and friend.

"Her leadership of the school has led to major successes, such as the Jubilee Appeal, and has given the girls a chance to develop a wide range of cultural, sporting and academic skills to the highest standard.

"This will be Mrs Hamilton's legacy of which we are all so very proud."

The funeral service will be held at Yarm Parish Church at 2pm tomorrow, followed by a committal at Teesside Crematorium for family and colleagues.

Donations should be made to Breakthrough Breast Cancer Care.