TRIBUTES have been paid to an “inspirational” teacher at a Linwood school after she died at the weekend.

Jan Merrick was Faculty Head of Languages at St Benedict’s High.

Previously, she taught English at St Brendan’s High, also in Linwood, from 1991 to 2006.

Gerry O’Neil, headteacher at St Benedict’s High, told the Gazette: “Jan was well respected by both pupils and staff.

“She worked in the school since it opened in 2006 and served the local community for the past 26 years, teaching English in St Brendan’s from 1991.

“She was a much-loved friend and colleague who will be sadly missed by all in our school community.”

Jan, who died on Friday, is survived by her partner Matt, mum Kathleen, children Donald, Kayt, John and Christine and grandchildren Ruby and Katy Jane.

Her funeral will take place at St Conval’s Church, in Linwood, at 10am on Friday.

Jan’s family would welcome donations to the Room To Read charity, in tribute to her passion for teaching, stories and enabling others.

To donate, visit https://give.roomtoread.org/JanMerrick