TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘one of a kind’ woman and the ‘lifeblood’ of a school.

Joan Herdman worked at Hebden Green School since the very day it opened, in September 1974.

Sadly, following a year-long battle with breast cancer, she passed away on February 4, aged 85.

Joan’s daughter, Elaine Knowles, said:” Joan was a strong lady, never one to mince her words and said it as it was.

“She had determination and wouldn't let anything beat her.

“I'm sure if you knew Joan, you would have a story to tell about her. I'm sure a lot of people have many memories of her.

“She was fierce, determined and a fighter, but sadly she lost her fight with cancer at the age of 85.”

Head teacher of Hebden Green, Helen Ashley, paid tribute, saying: “Joan was one of a kind who we are incredibly lucky to have had share in our lives.

“Joan had lots of friends and many memories have been shared since her sad passing which will always be treasured.”

She added: “Joan has supported countless families and worked alongside incalculable numbers of staff – always keeping us all in check!

“Joan was the lifeblood of the school, always enhancing the team with her strength and vitality.

“She was an honest, open person who always told you how things should be done.

“If you cared about her, she cared about you.

“She was dedicated to school, our children, our families and our staff and respected all those that were cherished members of the Hebden Green School community.”

Northwich Guardian: Joan worked at Hebden Green School since the day it first opened Joan worked at Hebden Green School since the day it first opened (Image: Supplied)

Joan was born in Liverpool in 1938, one of six children born to parents Bernard and Ellen.

She left school at 16, working at Barker and Dobson and later at Tate and Lyle.

Joan met her husband Wally and they married in January 1968, welcoming their daughter Elaine in September of that year.

The following year the family moved to Winsford and in 1974 Joan started work at Hebden Green on the day it first opened.

Joan worked as a cleaner and later laundress, supporting every class and head teacher the school has ever had.

She continued to work at the school until she became ill, being diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2023.

“Joan was still working at the school at age 84 and had no intention of retiring!” Elaine said.

“She was there for almost 50 years and put her heart and soul into her job. Joan was Hebden Green!”

Joan continued to keep in high spirits, laughing and joking with friends and family despite her illness.

However, at the end of January 2024, Joan’s health suddenly declined and she died on February 4.