TRIBUTES have been paid to an ‘outstanding’ Southampton teacher who died after battling cancer.

Elizabeth Wright was Head of Drama at Sholing Technology College before leaving at the end of the summer term.

Now, staff and students both past and present have paid tribute to her, with hundreds set to take part in a memorial day on Sunday.

Miss Wright died on Tuesday after her fight with cancer, in what the college have called the ‘tragic loss’ of an outstanding teacher.

A statement from the college said: “We are deeply saddened by the death of Miss Wright.

“She was an outstanding teacher, wonderful colleague and friend and was loved by us all.

“This sudden loss has greatly affected our school community. Students and parents have been informed of this tragic loss and assemblies have been held for returning students asking how we can best remember her life and her contribution to the school.”

Hundreds are expected to attend a memorial event this weekend to celebrate her life, with former students paying their respects and tributes to the teacher.

Harry Watts, a student who graduated in 2015, is organising the event at the Veracity Ground on Sunday evening.

Harry, 18, said: “She was one in a million, such an incredible person who was so happy and she helped out everybody she could.

“Miss Wright was a huge comfort to everyone at the school and it will be a big, big loss, not just to the school but also to the community.”

Current and former students have posted messages on social media ahead of the event, where it planned to release 25 white doves and balloons.

Carys Shears posted: “Completely heartbroken at the news of the most wonderful and excitable teacher sadly leaving us, she was an inspiration to so many!”

Bekki Brown said: “She was an amazing woman with an enormous heart. She could light the darkest of rooms with her presence and smile.”

Hollie Ripley posted: “I still hear your little catchphrases running around in my head. Thank you for everything.”