THE family of a headteacher who died after being treated for coronavirus have paid tribute to her.

Wendy Jacobs, the head of Roose Primary School, has been described as an 'incredible woman' following her death at Furness General Hospital.

The 58-year-old's death has prompted an outpouring of grief in the community and parents and pupils were encouraged to light a candle in tribute to Mrs Jacobs on Sunday night.

In a statement, Mrs Jacobs' family said: “Our mum passed away from pneumonia complicated by Covid-19.

“It’s possible she would have passed from the pneumonia alone.

“She was an incredible woman and her last act as headmistress was to ensure the school she cared so much about was closed the day after she started showing symptoms and only reopened once she was sure it was safe and her staff and pupils were protected.

“At this time we ask for privacy, respect and for people to refrain from speculating or commenting on her death.

“We wish this respect and privacy also be extended to all the staff and pupils at Roose Primary School.”

The North Row school was one the first education establishments in Barrow to close.

Earlier in the month, the school announced it would close after Mrs Jacobs showed symptoms of the virus.

She was said to have closed the school as a precaution to protect the welfare of staff and pupils.

The school reopened on Monday with Mrs Jacobs staying in self-isolation for seven days. She was later taken to hospital and placed in intensive care.

After her death Roose Primary's chair of governors Fred Chatfield said: "This is devastating news for our school and nursery community and all our thoughts and sympathies are with her family.

He said Mrs Jacobs death was 'a huge loss to our school, nursery and our community'.

A number of pupils left flowers and heartfelt messages outside the school in the days after her death.

Warm tributes were also left for the headteacher on social media.

Zoe Tunstall said: “A huge, huge loss for the Roose community.

"Absolutely heartbroken.

“Wendy was the most kind and caring headteacher who showed passion in all that she did for the school.

“Roose School will truly never be the same again.

“Sending love and strength to all her family, friends, staff and pupils.

“Sleep peacefully Mrs Jacobs.

"You will forever be a part of our memories.”

Leanne Richardson said: “Roose just won’t be the same.

"This was a lady that cared for so many that went above and beyond has sat and dried my tears so many times and the tears of others.

"Such a sad loss to our little community.

"Rest in peace Wendy."