TRIBUTES have been paid to an 'amazing' woman who helped hundreds of kids in schools across East Lancashire.

Christine Holland was a much-loved mum, grandma, sister and special friend to many and died on Mothers Day at the East Lancashire Hospice.

The 64-year-old was born in Whalley and spent many years working in the banks and building societies of Accrington, where she made many friendships with both staff and customers alike.

Later she found her passion working in primary schools, in particular as a Learning Mentor at Whalley School where she supported many children and families in her role over the years.                                                                                                    

Son Nick Pitman said: "She was the best mum you could ask for and also the grandma to my three girls Faye, Esmee and Florence and then my sister Lauren's little boy Rory.

"She was so well-known to everyone as she started to work in Tesco in her teens then went to Bleakholt.

"I can remember she couldn’t go anywhere without having to stop for a chat or to say “hello” to someone she knew.

Lancashire Telegraph:

"She did a bookkeeping course at Accrington College then worked at banks.

"She started in schools including St Andrews in Oswaldtwistle, Great Harwood Primary and Read Primary.

"Then she found her passion in Whalley School where she was a learning mentor for 14 years running breakfast clubs and other groups.

"We have had so many messages from families of kids who have changed their lives of their kids. There have been message from the communities in Accrington, Ribble Valley and Burnley. 

"It is heart warming to hear about that but it comes as no surprise.

"She was a great grandma to the kids and they did not want to leave her house after visits.

"She loved nothing more than to be outside in her wellies, whether that be walking her dogs or spending time in the garden getting muddy with her grandchildren.  Her house was always open and a place of solace for many."

She was also a member of the running club in Baxenden and her funeral will take place on Monday, April 11.

Such was her passion for horses that they are having a horse-drawn carriage from Hyndburn Funeral Services to St John's Church in Baxenden for the service at 1.45pm followed by a committal at the Crematorium in Accrington.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at East Lancashire Hospice for their never ending love care and support provided not only to Chris but all the family as well.

Nick said: "She has been on a journey with cancer for four years and was very brave and her final stages were in the East Lancashire Hospice. 

"We have been blown away with the support of the doctors, nurses and volunteers and they are angels for giving a high level of care."

For more information about the funeral service or to make donations in memory of Christine to East Lancashire Hospice contact Hyndburn Funeral Services, Queens Road, Accrington, BB5 6DR