Rachel Butler, who died of a brain tumour in 2003 aged just 29, was born in Whitnash where her parents still live.

She attended Briar Hill Infant and St Margaret's Primary schools before taking her A-levels at Myton.

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At the age of 19, she left home to study at Plymouth University, where she got her degree in performing arts and drama.

Her first teaching position was at Snaresbrook Primary School in South Woodford, where she worked for six years before her illness.

School office manager Louvain Stevens believes the garden, which features a wide range of flowers and a specially designed beach, is a fitting tribute to Miss Butler's endearing personality.

She said: "It is a great way of keeping her memory alive - she was so full of life and vitality.

"I think about Rachel every day and, when we are all gone, the garden will mean that future generations will know who she was."

The garden was unveiled on June 29, following 'Butler day', an annual event the school holds in celebration of her life.

Mrs Stevens said: "We hold the day on or around June 21 each year, which is the anniversary of the day she died.

"The children get a break from normal lessons and are encouraged to take part in exciting and fun creative activities, which were Rachel's passion."

Miss Butler's parents joined her former colleges along with pupils, staff and parents from the school for the opening.

Olive Butler, of Mullard Drive, spoke of her daughter's enthusiasm for her job and of the fond memories she has left the people at Snaresbrook School.

She said: "She was a fantastic teacher with a particular way with children, especially those with special needs.

"I was told how she really put the fun into lessons. There was one instance when a teacher walked past one of Rachel's lessons and they could hear the children laughing.

"When they asked her what subject it was she said, 'maths'."