THE family of an early years teacher who died last year have ensured her legacy lives on by helping pilot an education scheme for young children.

Anne Turner, 47, worked for Durham County Council's Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership and died last September. Although the exact cause of death is unknown, it is believed to have been caused by respiratory problems as a result of blood clots on her lungs.

Her husband, Colin, and three children asked that in lieu of flowers at her funeral, people made donations to help young children in the county.

The money has been used to buy "topic boxes". Each box is based on a different subject and contains books and other learning materials such as puppets and toys aimed at stimulating the interest of children aged between three and five.

Yesterday, Mr Turner and his three children, Adam, 19, Rebecca, 16 and Jack, 13 handed over 16 of the boxes to Durham County Council, which will be lent to playgroups and other pre-school organisations. It is the first time such a scheme has operated for pre-school children in the county.

Mr Turner, from Cotherstone, near Barnard Castle, said: "Anne always tried very hard to help people in very practical ways and she loved children very much.

"This scheme will make a real difference to pre-school children in the county and I am proud that her endeavours will be remembered in this way."

Each of the boxes has a commemorative plaque inside, designed by the couple's children.

Mrs Turner was a former teacher at Bowes Hutchinson CE Primary School, in Teesdale.