Tributes have poured in following the death of a woman who 'shaped the educational landscape' of Macclesfield.

Macclesfield College has paid tribute to former principal Beryl Footman.

Miss Footman worked at the college for over a decade, having previously served as headmistress of Macclesfield High School for Girls for 15 years.

"Macclesfield College is saddened to learn of the passing of Miss Beryl Footman, our former principal from 1978 to 1989," said a spokesperson for the college on Park Lane.

"A respected leader and true pioneer in education, Miss Footman guided the college with vision, dedication and a deep commitment to opportunity for all.

"Her earlier service as headmistress of Macclesfield High School for Girls further shaped the educational landscape of our town and her influence continues to be felt by the many students and staff whose lives she touched.

"We are grateful for her lasting contribution to the college and the wider community. Our thoughts are with her family and all who knew her."

Miss Footman was headmistress of Macclesfield High School for Girls, on Fence Avenue, from 1963 to 1978.

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The high school became King's Girls' and Junior Divisions in 1993, having closed as Macclesfield County High School in 1990.

A King's spokesperson said: "Often described as a 'trail-blazer' and 'pioneer', Miss Footman touched the lives of or had some influence on a significant number of people in Macclesfield, and indeed across the country.

"Beryl's funeral will be taking place in Cambridge, we send our condolences to her family and all those who knew her."