Loving tributes have been pouring in for an "inspirational" headteacher who had the "most welcoming smile".
Parents say Weston Primary School in Runcorn "will never be the same again" after headteacher Ros Atkins died at the age of 43 earlier this month. After being diagnosed with bowel cancer, Ros lost her fight with the disease and died surrounded by her loved ones on Monday, October 3 at Marie Curie.
Tributes have since been pouring in for the "amazing" headteacher, who always knew she wanted a career in teaching. ECHO reader Katie Davies said: "The most amazing woman. I was so lucky to know her and have my children welcomed with open arms into her school family.
READ MORE: Nurse was 'poisoner' targeting vulnerable babies, jury told
"I have such fond memories of her. A true inspiration to so many. Sleep tight Ros. Sending so much love to John, Maggie and all of family and friends."
Ali Dale added: "Just the loveliest headteacher I’ve ever worked with. Ros always made me feel so welcome at Weston, and warmth and kindness radiated from her. She cared so much for all of her pupils and staff. Sending heartfelt condolences to her family. Rest in peace, beautiful lady."
The ECHO previously reported how Ros, from Gateacre, was on holiday with her husband John and their daughter Maggie in Scotland when she first started experiencing pain in the right side of her body. Despite thinking it could be a pulled muscle, the pain gradually got worse.
After trips to her GP and hospital, Ros eventually was diagnosed with stage four terminal bowel cancer and told secondary cancer cells had also spread to her liver and lymph nodes. It was at this time Ros was told the devastating news at Whiston Hospital she had between 18 months and five years to live.
But despite months battling the disease, Ros continued her incredible work and used her story to raise awareness, urging others to know their own bodies. Paying tribute, ECHO reader Heather Evans said: "Such a beautiful person inside and out. Weston will never be the same again.
"Such an amazing head, who truly put the kids first. My girls miss you so much. Thinking of your little girl and family at this heartbreaking time. Good night, god bless Mrs Atkins"
Kathy O'Grady wrote: "I met this lovely lady once when I visited the school as a new teacher. She was so bubbly and friendly and had so much love for the job, she made a real impression on me and I never forgot her. What a huge loss to education Sending so much love to her family and friends at such a sad time."
Sez Green Chez added: "Absolutely gutted, she was a fabulous teacher with a heart of gold who had time for everyone, thinking of her family at this sad time."
Ros was looking for alternative chemotherapy treatments when she developed sepsis. After being told there was nothing more that could be done, she went to Marie Curie on September 27. In a bid to thank staff for all of their support to the family, Husband John Atkins set up a fundraiser as he wanted to give something back.
Nicola Humphreys said: "It was a pleasure and a privilege to help care for Ros Such a beautiful person inside and out You touched all our hearts at Marie Curie Our thoughts and prayers are with John and Maggie always."
The fundraiser in memory of Ros, who has been described by many as a "courageous, inspirational and caring" woman that "leaves a massive hole" in hearts, can be found here.
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
Girlfriend accompanied drug dealer and kept his stock inside herself
Liverpool hotel warning after Eurovision price hike
Boy misses a year of school after 'pushing teachers to the limit'
CCTV shows murder suspects moments after Sam Rimmer shot dead
Bank holidays for 2022 and 2023 in UK confirmed - full list of dates
