Tributes have been paid to a dedicated college principal who spent over three decades "committed to improving the lives of those living in this county".

Viv Gillespie, who held the role at Suffolk New College for seven-and-a-half years between June 2015 and January 2023, died on Friday, March 31, following a short illness. 

During her time at Suffolk New College, she successfully navigated a period of great positive change that saw the institution join forces with Suffolk Rural, formally Otley College, and open two new ‘On The Coast’ campuses based in Halesworth and Leiston.

Over the course of more than 30 years, the principal saw her positively support thousands of people via a varied career in teaching and management.

Mrs Gillespie took her first principal role working at City College Plymouth, followed by positions as principal for Northumberland College and then South Worcestershire College.

Acting principal of the college, Alan Pease, who worked with Viv as deputy principal said: "Our college community is devastated by this news.

"During her time here, Viv committed to improving the lives of those living in this county and beyond by offering exceptional educational and training opportunities for all.

"She developed a culture of helping others and as a consequence of this, students and staff always support numerous local and national charity campaigns throughout the year.

“Viv was extremely private who was never the sort of person to shout from the rooftops about her own achievements. She liked to proudly sit in the background and let others take the glory.

"A keen gardener, I’ve never seen her more proud when she joined horticulture students at the Suffolk Show last year as they celebrated winning a double gold medal for their garden design.

"Viv was fiercely determined, incredibly loyal, honest and a great relationship builder behind the scenes. She was a brilliant figurehead for one of the largest educational facilities in the county and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her."

Mr Pease added the college will create a fitting tribute in her memory to remember "the outstanding contribution she made during her time with us".

He added: "For now, our priority is to process her passing and our thoughts are very much with her family and friends at this time.”