Tributes have poured in for a popular Norwich lollipop lady, who lost her two-year battle with cancer last week.

Marilyn Winsdale, who was lollipop lady at Avenue Junior School for 30 years before retiring in July 2010, died at her home in Cubitt Road, aged 65, on Thursday.

The details of Mrs Winsdale's funeral have been confirmed by her family, and tributes continue to flood in. Former Lord Mayor of Norwich, Roy Blower, below, knew Mrs Winsdale as all three of his children went to Avenue School.

Mr Blower said: 'Marilyn not only had a remarkable personality, but a remarkable rapport with the children as well.

'I used to see her once a week when carrying out a survey for my company and she would always put her hand up and wave to me.

'As the children walked across the road you could see the rapport that Marilyn had with them, they were always talking to her and looked at her as a bit of a mother figure. She was remarkable and I'm so sorry to hear she has passed away.'

Mrs Winsdale, who had four children, two step-children, 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, also used to work as a home helper and cleaner for the Barclay family at their Caernarvon Road home. Renee Barclay said: 'She always had a cheery smile and friendly words. Each time she came to visit, it was like having a Mary Poppins come to the house. She could turn chaos into order in a couple of hours.

'Marilyn was not a wealthy lady in financial terms, but her spirit was so rich, and she is still with us in our hearts, and our fond memories of her will remain.'

Sam Earl, of Dell Crescent, Norwich, said: 'As a former pupil of Avenue Middle School I was shocked and saddened to read of Marilyn's death.

'Generations of children living in the Golden Triangle and beyond, who attended Avenue Middle School, will remember her charming and pleasant support and encouragement.

'I was always amazed by her memory, her ability to recall children's names and the way in which she took the time to listen and talk to people. She will be truly missed.'

Mrs Winsdale's funeral is being held at 12.45pm at Earlham Crematorium, on Monday, June 18. People who knew Mrs Winsdale are welcome to attend the service.

Only family flowers are able to be accepted but donations are welcome to two charities in Mrs Winsdale's name.

These are Meadow Green Dog Rescue Centre, Loddon, and Woodland Cat Rescue, Hellesdon, with Gordon Barber Funeral Directors in Aylsham Road handling the donations.

- Would you like to pay tribute to someone who has passed away? Call David Freezer on 01603 772418.