TRIBUTES were paid yesterday to an teacher who had a smile for everyone.

Betty Mason, who died on Monday aged 75, was head of the sixth-form and head of biology at Teesdale Comprehensive, in Barnard Castle, until her retirement.

Her husband Ted said yesterday: "I've had many messages from her former pupils and fellow teachers, who all spoke about her teaching skills as well the warm smile with which she always greeted them."

Mrs Mason met her husband when both were students at Leeds.

Her husband became head of biology at Teesdale Comprehensive in 1959, and she later joined him on the staff.

As head of sixth-form, she helped the school gain good A-level results, and when Mr Mason retired she followed him as head of biology.

She was also on the review committee at Deerbolt Young Offenders Institution. She was a volunteer guide at the Bowes Museum for 15 years, and was a member of a guild raising money for lifeboats.

Mrs Mason leaves a son, David, and two daughters, Deborah and Catherine, as well as three grandchildren.

A service of thanksgiving will be held at Barnard Castle Parish Church on Tuesday at noon, following cremation at Darlington.