Friends and colleagues of a former PE teacher are hoping to raise enough money for a lasting memorial in her name.

The Shrine bench at Aylesford Priory would stand in memory to Zoe O’Kelly, the former St Simon Stock School teacher who was foudn dead on Christmas Day.

Sue Brinn, a former colleague at the school in Oakwood Park, Maidstone, said she hoped the memorial bench would make a suitable tribute to her life.

She said: “I taught with her for over 17 years and she will always be remembered as a funny quirky character with a heart of gold. It has been a testament to her good teaching that so many ex-students have remembered her.”

Mrs O’Kelly, 53, also known as Miss Truchon, and Dave Roots, 55, were discovered dead by police at the home they shared in Belgrave Street, Eccles.

A cause of death has still not been officially announced but police initially suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.

Any donations to the memorial bench - which will cost around £400 - should be sent to: Clare Abbotson, The Friars, Aylesford, ME20 ZBX.

Cheques should be made payable to The Friars.

Mrs Brinn said excess donation would go to The Friars, adding: “it was a place where Zoe felt at peace during troubles times.”