THE family of a Clacton teacher who died after a cancer battle has thanked those who attended her funeral and donated to her chosen charity.

Clacton County High School teacher Julie Maldon died aged 51, nine years after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

Hundreds of people attended her funeral last week, including pupils and fellow teachers from the county high school.

Julie asked for donations to be made to St Helena Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Care rather than people bringing flowers.

A massive £1,300 was raised, which will now be donated to the charities.

Julie’s partner Tony Deal said: “The funeral was standing room only. It was a great send off.

“I would like to thank everybody who came and donated so generously. We had donations come in from lots of people, including one from the school.

“The amount of people there and the support for us and for Julie was staggering. It shows how much she was loved by those who knew her.”