School's farewell to ex-pupil (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

School's farewell to ex-pupil

Hayley with her friend Charlotte GreenHAYLEY RICHARDS MURDER: A SCHOOL said an emotional goodbye to one of their ex-pupils this week in a moving set of tributes.

Hayley Richards was a student at the John of Gaunt School in Trowbridge from 1993-1998.

Teachers and ex-pupils spoke warmly of Miss Richards and told her family: "We're thinking of you".

Gareth Humphreys, 23, of Wyke Road, Trowbridge, studied with Hayley at school and has been friends with her ever since.

He said: "She was a very bright girl, really popular with people.

"I would see her in town all the time and we would stop and have a chat.

"I found out on Saturday and was just absolutely shell-shocked.

"It is just such a tragedy when something like this happens to somebody so young, she was of no age at all really.

"I know Paul very well and I just want to pass on my condolences to the whole family."

Sarah Busby, deputy headteacher at the school, said Hayley was a bright popular girl.

Friends with floral tributesShe said: "All our memories of Hayley are very positive. In particular everyone remembers that she always had a smile on her face.

"Obviously this has left so many people very saddened."

Since the murder floral tributes have been laid outside Miss Richards' home in Carders Corner from friends and family.

One read: "My Goddaughter Hayley, love you now and always. Thinking of you, your godmother Carol and Allen."

Another, from Miss Richards' niece, said: "You will always be in my heart, and I will never forget you, thinking of you.

"You were always there for me and you are a lovely auntie to me.

"You are so beautiful. I love you so much, love you forever, from Jess."