TRIBUTES have been paid to a much loved school dinner lady who has died after a brave battle with cancer.

Christine Sergeant, 62, who also worked in school admin, was described as 'simply the best' by Darnhall Primary School Head Teacher Sarah Tomlinson in a touching video posted on the school's Facebook page.

She said: "I decided I couldn't write what I wanted to say.

"It seemed really impersonable to put it in black and white.

"In the early hours yesterday (February 13) a very special lady passed away peacefully in her sleep.

"She was a wife, mum, nanny, colleague and a dear friend to many.

"Mrs Sergeant, Chris, Christine, Sarge or Sargeo as some of us called her, was simply the best.

"The kindest and most caring, loving person you could wish to meet.

Mrs Sergeant, who was married to husband Derek, worked at the school for many years and her two sons, Gary and Mark had been pupils at the school when they were younger.

"Every day Chris cycled to work, waving to people on her way," Mrs Tomlinson added.

"She always had a little bit of something in her bag for someone.

"She was always spoiling us with things she'd spotted at car boot sales, bargains from the shops, or tasty goodies she'd brought from home, including pieces of her families birthday cakes.

"Chris was a very popular dinner lady and a brilliant member of our admin team.

"Her cheery voice greeted many people on the phone or at the reception desk for years.

"She always worked tremendously hard and always went that extra mile.

"She helped at the school bingo and many other events.

"We always laughed so much together as a team and everyone loved her and will continue to love her forever."

Northwich Guardian: Tributes have been made to dinner lady Christine Sergeat, who died after a battle with cancer.

Tributes have been made to dinner lady Christine Sergeant, who died after a battle with cancer.

The dedicated staff member was forced to take early retirement when the cancer she had been diagnosed with spread, something which meant she could no longer do the job she loved.

"We had a really special party with Chris and we were able to share with her many fond memories our children had put together in a memory book," Mrs Tomlinson added.

"Chris courageously fought and fought but sadly it was a battle she could not win.

"She was our Sarge, our friend and I know Darnhall was so fortunate to have her.

"At her party, she pulled me to one side and said, 'Sarah, I really hoped I could be at Darnhall forever'.

"And she will be. She will be forever in our hearts."

Mrs Sergeant has done more than just leave behind so many wonderful memories and a much respected legacy, with so many small reminders of her located all around the school.

"If you go in the uniform cupboard, the drawers are beautifully labelled by her," Mrs Tomlinson said.

"There are little bits, bobs and notes everywhere.

"She really was part of the furniture.

"On behalf of our school community I want to express our deepest condolences to all those who knew and loved her.

"She was such a special lady who made a real difference and I thank her sincerely for absolutely everything."