A HEADTEACHER has paid tribute following the death of a little girl who collapsed in front of classmates at school.

Nine-year-old Libby Mae Moss was about to leave Eaton Primary School on Monday last week when she suddenly collapsed.

Ambulance crews were called to the school at 3.15pm and took the youngster to the Countess of Chester Hospital but she could not be revived.

A post mortem examination revealed the cause of death was natural causes.

Eaton Primary headteacher Darryl Pickering said Libby’s tragic death had deeply shocked and saddened the school and the village.

He said: “Libby was an absolutely delightful child, loved by the entire school community. Our love and sympathy go out to her family and friends.

“She was a beautiful, kind and talented little girl who will be sadly missed by everyone who knew her. Her calmness and quiet determination were an example to us all.”

Libby and her younger sister Emelia joined Eaton Primary School in September 2007.

“During her time at Eaton, Libby made many wonderful friendships. She was popular with children of all ages, often supporting and playing with the younger children at playtimes.

Š“She had the time and patience to teach other children playground games and was often seen trying to explain the intricacies of hula hooping and skipping to the children.

“Libby enjoyed so many aspects of school life. She loved to play the recorder and was an avid reader of books. She was such a wonderful part of our school community, kind, caring and giving and will be sadly missed by us all.”

A plaque will be erected at the school in memory of Libby, and staff, pupils and parents have left floral tributes and cards under a tree at the school.

In tribute to the little girl, the school’s May fair on Monday will be called the Libby Mae Fair.

The school is also considering a more permanent memorial to the child.

A private family funeral service was held yesterday (Wednesday).