THE memory of a teacher who spent her entire career at the primary school she had been a pupil at is leaving a lasting legacy for it’s pupils.

Paula Helm, who died aged 49 last year, was a beloved figure to generations of Burnley school children after working at St Mary’s RC Primary in Holcombe Drive for 27 years.

Mrs Helm, who lived with husband Graham in Bacup, died last year after fighting pancreatic cancer.

A fundraising dinner at Turf Moor earlier this month raised in excess of £11,000 in her memory. The dinner raised funds for both the school and East Lancashire Hospice, where she was cared for with £3,000 given to the primary school to build an outdoor stage in the school playground.

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Stars including Jimmy Cricket, international opera star Sean Ruane and band A Few Good Men performed on the evening, which was attended by 460 of Paula’s family and friends.

Headteacher Ian Jones said: “Paula was a a superb teacher and a kind and generous woman. She was loved by the children and all the staff. We all still miss Paula every day at school.

“The school is incredibly thankful for the donation. We are hoping to have the stage assembled over the next half term.”

Graham Helm said: “Paula was passionate about children being given the opportunity to develop their confidence and the new stage will give them the perfect place to do that.”

The remaining £8,110 raised was donated to East Lancashire Hospice to support patients and their families.

Graham added: “The hospice allowed us to spend precious time together.

“Paula was always about giving more than she got out of something, and that’s why I have to raise funds for the hospice.

“We need to be able to put back into it for all the care and support we got.”

Hospice fundraiser Kimberley Hall said: “Graham’s story touches everyone. The way he talks about Paula as a loving, fun and giving person can’t help but inspire those around him to support Paula’s legacy.