Children launch pirate ship in memory of teaching assistant

A pirate ship was launched by school staff and pupils as part of a special memorial to a former teaching assistant.
Cobblers Lane Primary School unveiled the new playground equipment in memory of Sandra Naylor, a former teaching assistant.Cobblers Lane Primary School unveiled the new playground equipment in memory of Sandra Naylor, a former teaching assistant.
Cobblers Lane Primary School unveiled the new playground equipment in memory of Sandra Naylor, a former teaching assistant.

Sandra Naylor worked at Cobblers Lane Primary School in Pontefract for more than 14 years before she died on April 3, 2015.

And after raising more than £30,000, youngsters and teachers organised a ceremony to dedicate new playground equipment in her memory on Friday, May 20.

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The children dressed up as little pirates for the day, when equipment including a wooden ship was officially opened by Mrs Naylor’s husband, Rod.

Rod Naylor, Sandra's husband, dedicated a plaque at the same time in Sandra's memory.Rod Naylor, Sandra's husband, dedicated a plaque at the same time in Sandra's memory.
Rod Naylor, Sandra's husband, dedicated a plaque at the same time in Sandra's memory.

Mr Naylor, 62, said: “They asked me to do the opening ceremony which was lovely, it was an experience.

“I managed to hold back my tears but it was emotional.

“Sandra started off the fundraising and she would have been so pleased to see the playground come to fruition.”

Part of the revamped playground now includes a plaque, engraved and dedicated to Mrs Naylor.

Rod Naylor, Sandra's husband, dedicated a plaque at the same time in Sandra's memory.Rod Naylor, Sandra's husband, dedicated a plaque at the same time in Sandra's memory.
Rod Naylor, Sandra's husband, dedicated a plaque at the same time in Sandra's memory.
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Mr Naylor, from Pontefract, added: “Sandra worked there since around 2001 so it’s lovely that she’s still in their thoughts.

“It’s something now that is permanent.”

The new equipment was bought after a fundraising drive by the school’s Parent Teachers Association.

Mrs Naylor first started as a volunteer at the school before becoming a teaching assistant.

Their two children, Josh and Sam, also attended the school.

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