A TEACHING assistant and mum of two from Clacton has died after a battle with cancer.

Donna Oldfield, 47, was diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer in October 2011.

Clacton County High School teaching assistant Donna had been undergoing chemotherapy treatment in a bid to keep the cancer at bay, but died on Sunday December 2.

Mum to Daniel and Emma, she has worked at the county high school for more than ten years.

Co-worker Simon Kedge said: “Donna was always full of life. She had a bubbly personality and a wonderful sense of humour, even when she wasn’t well.

“She had a positive outlook on life, and didn’t let the cancer get her down."

Donna had pledged to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer while she went through treatment.

She got the school involved and organised a series of fundraisers, raising more than £1,250 for Pancreatic Cancer UK.

Mr Kedge added: “Following her diagnosis she worked with her usual vibrancy and enthusiasm to raise money for the charity.

“Donna was a lady with a big personality and an immense heart.

“She will be truly missed by all her colleagues and friends at school. Our thoughts are with Donna’s children and her family.”