A Lowestoft-area primary school has honoured the memory of a beloved friend and colleague who died earlier this year.

Sorely missed by her family and friends, Sharon Goldspink, of Pakefield, died peacefully on January 18, aged 53.

Having been a member of staff at Pakefield Primary School "for many years", the former teaching assistant has been honoured with the installation of a new commemorative bench.

Lowestoft Journal: Sharon Goldspink, former teaching assistant at Pakefield Primary School in Lowestoft. Picture: Pakefield Primary SchoolSharon Goldspink, former teaching assistant at Pakefield Primary School in Lowestoft. Picture: Pakefield Primary School (Image: Pakefield Primary School)

The school on London Road, paid touching tributes to Mrs Goldspink, who had a "significant impact on the lives of many children".

And being fondly remembered for her invaluable contributions and dedication to the school community, Mrs Goldspink's commitment and impact at the school was celebrated as a bench dedication ceremony was attended by pupils, friends, colleagues, the school council and her sons.

Lowestoft Journal: Pakefield Primary School has remembered 'beloved teaching assistant' Sharon Goldspink with a memorial bench. Picture: Pakefield Primary SchoolPakefield Primary School has remembered 'beloved teaching assistant' Sharon Goldspink with a memorial bench. Picture: Pakefield Primary School (Image: Pakefield Primary School)

A school spokesman said: "Sharon will be ‘forever in our hearts’ and always ‘simply the best’."

After starting as a parent when her children attended the school, Mrs Goldspink later became an integral part of the school community as a member of staff.

During the special event Mrs Goldspink's sons received a basket containing items symbolising her role at the school, including her memory books, teddy bears made from her Pakefield-branded hoody and artwork made by the children for the day of her funeral.

Lowestoft Journal: Pakefield Primary School remembers a beloved teaching assistant Sharon Goldspink with a memorial bench. Picture: Pakefield Primary SchoolPakefield Primary School remembers a beloved teaching assistant Sharon Goldspink with a memorial bench. Picture: Pakefield Primary School (Image: Pakefield Primary School)

The school spokesman added: "The bench is already being embraced by the pupils and stands as a lasting tribute to Sharon's time and influence at Pakefield Primary School, serving as a reminder of her lasting impact and the fond memories shared by all who knew her during her time there."

Marie Rodwell, deputy headteacher of the school that is part of The Active Learning Trust, said: "Sharon's dedication to our school community left an enduring mark and she is sorely missed.

Lowestoft Journal: Pupils from Pakefield Primary School honour Sharon Goldspink’s memory. Picture: Pakefield Primary SchoolPupils from Pakefield Primary School honour Sharon Goldspink’s memory. Picture: Pakefield Primary School (Image: Pakefield Primary School)

"This memorial bench is a beautiful reminder of her positive impact and will serve as a cherished space for reflection and fond memories."