A "much-loved" matron has tragically died following a serious car crash over the weekend.

Nicky Day was matron at Sir William Borlase for 14 years with tributes pouring in from past and present students after the sudden loss.

As well as being popular in the school's community, Nicky was a great animal lover and volunteered her time on weekends at a cat sanctuary, with the school looking to raise funds to support the sanctuary in her memory.

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Headteacher, Kay Mountfield has said that staff and students will be taking a quiet time in the school chapel this week to reflect on the loss.

The headteacher said: "She managed all our different challenges with her characteristic kindness and gentle sense of humour.

"The news has come as an enormous shock to her family, friends and the whole school community.

"There are so many people, past and present, who experienced her support and kindness while at school here; we will miss her enormously.

"Students and staff are taking quiet time in the school chapel to reflect and write their thoughts and messages, these will be collated and sent to Matron’s partner and family."

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Former pupil, Sam Barry, took to social media saying: "I left Borlase in 2011 and I remember a very funny memory of being sent to matron because of my moustache being too long.

"She thought it would be hilarious to send me back to the class with a big plaster over my lip!

"The teacher was not impressed but me and Nicky had a good laugh."

Brandon Malaure said: "What an amazing lady.

"Matron was such an inspiration, kind and loving lady and would always pick me up whenever I was down.

"Matron helped me throughout my time at Sir William Boralse's Grammar School, and I would not be where I am today without her help, support and care."

Nick Sanger said: "What a gigantic loss.

"Matron was the kindest, most thoughtful lady.

"She would always have an answer for me and my friends' minor (or major) issues and injuries.

"Will be truly, truly missed by past and present Borlasians."

Finlay Cormack Potter added: "She created a uniquely safe space within the school.

"A huge loss to all, past and present."