An inquest has opened into the death of a much-loved teacher, whose body was discovered in a harbour.

Karen Gill has been described as “one in a million” among dozens of tributes paid by former students and colleagues on Sheppey.

Opening an inquest into Ms Gill’s death at Oakwood House in Maidstone, area coroner Catherine Wood recorded that she was born in Clapton but lived in St George’s Avenue, Sheerness.

She had been reported missing by her father after she failed to return home and a search was launched by the police.

The 51-year-old was last seen in the High Street area of Queenborough at around 4.30am on Monday, December 9.

However, just after 10pm, a member of the public in South Street called the police.

Emergency services attended and her body was identified by officers.

Ms Wood noted that she was found face down, with her arms at her sides.

It appeared she had sunk to the bottom of the water, which would explain cuts and bruises found later on her body.

There were no signs of defence marks.

Ms Gill was head of information technology at The Hundred of Hoo Academy in Medway, which is part of the Leigh Academy Trust (LAT), before leaving in 2021.

She previously taught computer science and business at Oasis Academy, as well as being a special educational needs coordinator (SENCo).

Ms Gill had worked at the secondary school on the Island for more than 15 years.

Since her death, a number of tributes have been paid to the teacher.

One former member of staff described her as “very kind, patient and supportive” and always had time for her students.

Her cause of death was recorded as drowning and is not being treated as suspicious. A toxicology report is also pending.

The inquest was adjourned with a full hearing to take place at 2pm on Friday, May 9, at Oakwood House.