A LASTING memorial to a much loved school volunteer has been created in the ground of Chorley New Road Primary School.

Joanne Ross-Nichol was a parent who volunteered at the Horwich school, even after her own child had moved on to secondary school.

She helped in the nursery and reception class, reading with youngsters and supporting and encouraging them in their play.

She died suddenly at home at the age of 36 from an asthma attack in December 2012.

Her contribution to the school has now been remembered with a memorial tree surrounded by a circular bench, in the garden next to the play area where Miss Ross-Nichol spent most of her time.

The tree was donated and planted by Jones Homes, which is currently building new family homes on a site adjacent to the school, and the circular bench was purchased by the PTA through school fundraising.

It is hoped pupils of all ages will enjoy reading on the bench and playing under the shade of the tree as it matures.

Headteacher Linda Burrows said: “Joanne was extremely well liked by everyone at the school, especially the younger children who benefitted from her kindness, patience and encouragement.

"We were greatly saddened to hear of her passing and wanted to remember her with a permanent memorial in the school grounds.

"The tree and reading bench seemed most fitting and we are grateful to the PTA and Jones Homes for their support in helping us achieve this.”

Miss Ross-Nichol's partner Paul Marsh, her daughters and mother and father officially unveiled the memorial at a ceremony at the school.

Her father Michael Ross-Nichol said: “Joanne loved children and her role as volunteer at Chorley New Road Primary School where I know that she truly felt part of the school family.

"It’s wonderful to have her memory recognised in this way.”

Jones Homes’ area sales manager Anna Halliwell said: “When we heard what the school and PTA wanted to do in memory of Joanne, we were delighted to help by donating and planting the tree.

"There is a real sense of community here in Horwich and the new residents at our development who have primary school age children will most probably find that they attend this school and benefit from this lovely addition to the school grounds.”