Tributes paid to Norfolk teaching assistant and mother-of-three who died aged 51

Liz Locke, of Sheringham, died at home with her family on July 6, aged 51.

Her friends at Sidestrand Hall special school, near Cromer, said in a statement: 'Liz Locke was a highly committed, valued and popular member of staff.

'She was a whirlwind through the school getting on with everything and keeping everyone on their toes. The best example of this was her creation of the school charity shop – Strands in Cromer.

'Liz continued to work in the shop throughout and was well-known by the customers for her sense of humour and positive approach to life.

'The proceeds from the shop have considerably enhanced the lives of the pupils at the school with a new food tech room, adventure playground and library bus. Liz was amazing and her loss will be felt by everyone whose lives she touched.'

Youngsters from the school were able to learn vital life skills and gain work experience at the shop, which opened in 2013.

The shop had previously been in an old store at the school, but moving to the Church Street building provided more scope for pupils to polish up independent living skills.

The family has also paid tribute in a death notice published in the EDP.

She was a partner to Karl Lowe, and mother of Charlotte, Craig and Tyler.

The family said she would be 'loved and remembered every day' and was someone who had left 'beautiful memories'.

They said she was 'so caring, giving, outspoken, courageous and brave. She lived her life to the full in the way only Lizzie could. Her unique sense of humour helped her through some of the darkest days, always making us laugh'.

The funeral service is at All Saints' Church, Upper Sheringham on Friday, July 27 at 2pm.

Flowers or donations to be shared between the Big C and Make A Wish Foundation - send cheques payable to Blyth & Sons c/o 4 Cremer Street, Sheringham, NR26 8DZ, 01263 823155 or via www.northnorfolkfuneralservices.co.uk