Pupils and staff at Wells Cathedral Junior School are mourning the death of a much loved arts teacher.

Kate Dennis was head of art at the co-educational independent school which has about 150 boys and girls.

She had worked at the school for nine years.

Her death was described as "tragic and unepected."

The school has a strong reputation for the creative arts.

It has its own art club and pupils’ work has been displayed at a variety of public exhibitions.

Its stated aims are to "inspire the future generation to be freely expressive, imaginative and resourceful in an ever changing landscape of challenges".

The school’s headteacher offered condolences to Ms Dennis' family, which expressed a desire for privacy.

A statement from the school said: “It is with great sadness and regret that the school has learnt that Kate Dennis, Wells Cathedral Junior School Head of Art, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 15.

“Kate had worked at Wells Cathedral School since 2010 and was a much-loved colleague, teacher and friend.

"We will miss her hugely.

“The thoughts and prayers of the whole community are with Kate’s family, and especially her wonderful children, Hannah and Toby.

"The family ask that the press and others respect their wishes to be allowed to grieve in private at such a difficult time.”

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