A VILLAGE school is mourning the loss of its popular head teacher who has died in a road crash.

Sue Murrell, head of Barham School, near Canterbury, was killed when her Ford Fiesta was in collision with a lorry on the B2046 between Adisham and Aylesham.

Chairman of Barham Parish Council, Linda Davies, said the village was in shock.

"She had only been at the school for about 18 months but she had made such an impact in that time. She was very helpful and approachable and was very popular in the village. She will be sadly missed.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the crash which happened just after 1pm on Thursday. They particularly want to speak to the driver of a car that was seen shortly before the accident who might have some useful information about what caused the tragedy.

Anyone with information is asked to telephone Dover Police on 01304 240055.

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