A DEDICATED and popular young teacher collapsed and died on her way home from school.

Staff at Eastwood Primary School in Leigh, say they are in shock and mourning after the sudden death of 29-yearold Louise Carey.

Miss Carey, who lived in Rochford, was at the start of her career having completed her first year as a newly-qualified teacher.

She had been in school on Monday helping decorate the hall for Christmas before getting the bus home as usual, but is believed to have collapsed in the street.

Police say they attended Snakes Lane, in Eastwood, just before 5.45pm.

It is understood she was given first aid by members of the public and paramedics, but she could not be saved.

Headteacher Rebecca Perman, who also worked with Miss Carey at Blenheim Primary School, in Leigh, described her as a fabulous teacher.

She said: “Lou was amazing.

"She was a fabulous teacher. She was so dedicated.

"She would get into school at 6.30am, sometimes before the caretaker and it was a standard joke of theirs.

“One of our lasting memories of her will be her laughing as all the staff were putting up the Christmas tree ready for the children.”

Miss Carey lived with her parents. They were called to the scene on Monday.

She had two brothers and was very close to her two young nephews.

Pupils at the school were given the news by Mrs Perman in their classrooms.

A minister of religion was present.

The school has set up a quiet room of reflection with candles lit, and a remembrance book for children to sign.

The school is planning a memorial service after the funeral has been held. No date has yet been set.