TRIBUTES have been paid to a Weymouth hands-on leader and headteacher who has died at the age of 82.

Margery Guilmant joined All Saints Church of England Secondary School in Wyke Regis as deputy head in 1974 and after a few years became the headteacher.

New buildings and extensions were to be built, since the number of pupils was due to increase. With her experience, she was able to anticipate future needs and influence certain design features. To maintain Church of England Voluntary Aided status it was necessary to raise £46,000.

This she did in two years, mainly due to her gift of friendly persuasion but also to her hard work in organising all kinds of fundraising events. Friends said that Wyke Regis became awash with raffle tickets, requests for anything saleable and collections of items for recycling to raise further funds. Mrs Guilmant will be remembered by friends and family as a hands-on leader, who loved a challenge.

They said that Mrs Guilmant was committed to raising academic standards and believed strongly in fostering good links with local employers.

She encouraged pupils to go on to further training, apprenticeship schemes and higher education.

Her manner of dealing with difficulties was with humour and she was able to give guidance in a friendly way. Her aim was always to create a Christian ethos.

Mrs Guilmant loved Wyke Regis and All Saints School and remained in contact with and interested in the school and former pupils after her retirement in July 1983. Friends said that she will be greatly missed by her husband, four daughters and family, as well as by many ex pupils, staff and others.