The husband of a primary school teacher who lost her battle with breast cancer has paid tribute to “the love of his life”.

Caroline Kirwan taught at St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School, Cranbrook Road, Gants Hill, for 18 years.

Her husband David said he would treasure the memories they were lucky enough to have.

“Your family and friends will miss your hugs, smiles and kind words, the brilliant photographs you took, the silly games you played,” he said.

“You were so vibrant, full of enthusiasm and ideas and easy to talk to – you have left a handprint on all our hearts.”

Caroline starting teaching at St Augustine’s in 1998 and her husband said she loved that she could influence a child’s life.

The school also paid tribute. A statement said: “You taught children to believe in themselves, to grow in the knowledge you gave them and achieve more than they ever thought possible.

“You weren’t just there for the children, you were there for all of us, your caring heart always shone leaving a drop of positivity in every life you touched.”

Caroline was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003, and in 2006 she received the news it had spread. She started teaching three days a week but sadly died two weeks ago.

Husband David said she loved her dogs, fine dining, time with family and friends, and was an enthusiastic photographer.

Later in her career, she specialised in teaching French.

“Your courage was an inspiration to us all because any challenge you had to endure was accomplished with the utmost dignity and strength,” he said.

“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”