STAFF and pupils at a school near Ipswich have paid tribute to former Head Girl Shireen Robinson, who died of a rare brain tumour.

STAFF and pupils at a school near Ipswich have paid tribute to former head girl Shireen Robinson who died of a rare brain tumour.

A memorial was held in the grounds of Orwell Park School, which Shireen attended for five years.

Headteacher Andrew Auster spoke of her spectacular academic record and outstanding contribution to school life.

"This is a very sad but also joyish occasion as we are remembering someone very special," he said.

"Shireen enjoyed an outstanding school career at Orwell Park and will always be remembered with fondness.

"We have planted a oak tree which is dedicated to her memory."

Suraya Robinson, Shireen's mother, addressed staff and the 200 pupils aged seven to 13.

She said: "This tree is a living memorial to Shireen who sadly died of a brain tumour in April.

"The tree is symbolic of prep school children. When put in, it is very small, but it immediately puts down its roots – which is its lifeline in times to come.

"I hope this tree will continue to grow and give pleasure to generations of children in the future."

A close friend of the family, Carrie Dye, read a simple poem titled Waterbugs and Dragonflies, explaining the changes that occur throughout our lives and how we have to adapt to these changes.

Shireen left Orwell Park to attend Oakham School in Rutland. She gained ten GCSEs and was a

talented sportswoman and keen drama student.

Shireen had been due to study medicine at Cambridge and also planned to study law.

Her dreams were shattered when she was diagnosed with gliomatosis cerebrie, a rare brain tumour in December 2000 and she finally lost her brave battle in April 2001.