Ref. 14557/1SPECIAL memories written in a simple tribute book prove how much little Jackie-Danielle Velvick was loved by school friends and teachers alike.

It took less than a term for the vibrant four-year-old to make her mark on a school now struggling to come to terms with her death.

There were tears and laughter in equal measure when the 163 pupils returned to Longmeadow Primary School on Wednesday.

Jackie-Danielle's unmistakable presence was greatly missed in particular by her young friends in reception class but teachers were on hand to cope with the inevitable outpouring of emotion.

For Jackie-Danielle's two brothers, Jordan and Brandon, there was a network of support firmly in place as they returned to school for the first time since the tragic accident.

Headteacher Maria Vinney spoke of the community's overwhelming response, while governor Grace Hill called the day a "humbling experience".

Rev Beth Hutton led prayers as each class remembered Jackie-Danielle in their own way.

Asked for their special memories, children recalled her blonde hair, her smile and her sense of humour. A tribute book was available in the school library for children who wanted to write down their feelings. Mrs Vinney said teachers wanted pupils to talk about their grief.

"It has been very hard for everyone. All the children knew Jackie-Danielle and played with her. We are used to having her around," she said.

"The reception class children are only four years old so we wanted to support them in the best way we could.

"The thing that struck me was the overwhelming support from the community. So many people came into the school to talk about Jackie-Danielle."

A garden of remembrance to remember Jackie-Danielle is in the pipeline, while people living on the Longfield estate are raising money for her grieving family.

Governor Grace Hill said: "We wanted to give the children the option to talk and ask questions.

"The teachers have been in for two days and thought of what they were going to do.

"They were around at playtime to look after any children who were upset. It has been a really open and helpful environment."