NETBALL players held a minute’s silence before matches across the county at the weekend, after the sudden, unexpected death of a ‘lovely lady’.

Jo Quinn, of South Street in Crewkerne, was the wing attack for Stanchester Sharks and played a match for them just a day before she died.

The team cancelled their next match. As well as being a keen netballer, Mrs Quinn worked as a teaching assistant at Maiden Beech Academy in the town.

Staff and students were given the sad news on Monday morning, and letters were also sent home to parents.

Head teacher Steve Smith said: “Jo was a much-loved member of staff, respected by the children and her colleagues.

"She was absolutely committed to life at Maiden Beech, running any number of sports clubs and extra activities, often together with Mrs Brown. They had formed a fantastic partnership that had enabled sport to thrive in the school and had given her real purpose.

“Her excitement and enthusiasm were plain to see, and her work was in the process of going from strength to strength.”

He added: “Jo was a lovely lady; always friendly and ready with a smile. She was also very good at her job. For Jo, the children came first.

“She was always able to offer good advice and help those who needed it. I was proud to have her on my staff and she will be greatly missed by all.

“Our thoughts are with her husband and children at this very sad time.”