Tributes paid as head found dead at school
Tributes have been paid to a 'gentle and kind' primary school headteacher who is believed to have killed herself in her office less than six months into the job.
Helen Mann was reportedly found hanged in her office at Sytchampton Endowed First School near Stourport at the end of a staff training day on Monday.
It is understood the 43-year-old was returning to work after a period off sick.
Today, her family and the village community spoke of their shock and paid tribute to the mother, who had two sons, George, 13, and Jack, 10.
Father-in-law Kenneth Mann said: "We understand she took her own life.
"We don't know the exact circumstances but we are all shocked and saddened.
"Helen had only started work at the school in the summer. We had no idea this was going to happen. We are all absolutely heartbroken.
"She was the loveliest person, nice to everyone. They have two wonderful sons who she loved so much."
West Mercia Police, who do not believe the death is suspicious, were last night interviewing Mrs Mann's husband, Philip, aged 48, to discover what mayhave led to the tragedy. Mr Mann, who runs an audio business, is a junior coach at Worcester Rugby Club.
It is unclear when the school will reopen.
When she first joined the school, Mrs Mann spoke of her hopes for the 109-pupil school. She said at the time: "I am really looking forward to working with everyone - staff, pupils, parents and governors alike – to be able to build on the achievements of Sychampton and its outstanding Ofsted assessment."
Parent Ruth Stacey, aged 35, said: "She was only there a short time, but in that short time she was really kind and gentle. The children adored her."
