STUDENTS have planted a tree in memory of their teacher who died last year in a climbing accident.

Students and staff from Tavistock Community College gathered to dedicate a walnut tree and plaque to the memory of Lesley Coupland, who fell to her death from the Dewerstone Rock near Plymouth last September.

The qualified climbing and walking leader, who had more than 40 years' experience, was out climbing with a friend.

Mrs Coupland had set up the college climbing club and regularly took the children on trips.

Members of the college's Ten Tors teams, which she had coached, gathered to plant the tree as part of the ceremony held on Wednesday.

Student Luke Hilton-Pierce said losing Lesley was one of the saddest things to happen to the school, adding: "Her tireless efforts in building and developing the Climbing Club gave me a unique and exciting experience."

The Rev Michael Brierley unveiled the plaque, which reminded students to have fun while using the college climbing wall.

Fellow-teacher Rosie Culverhouse set up the Lesley Coupland Memorial Fund to recognise her colleague's contribution to the college.

Proceeds from the fund were used to erect the tree and plaque in her honour.

Walnut was chosen by Lesley's husband Jonathan and staff at Endsleigh Nurseries as a strong and tall tree which would provide a lasting memory of the teacher.

At the base of the tree they placed flowers and bulbs to surround it in the summer months.

Speaking at the dedication, Mr Coupland said: "Lesley's professionalism, her teaching, her relationships with the students and staff, her determination and lastly her smile has been an example to us all. I'd like to thank all the students. Their words at the tree were wonderful. This truly is a wonderful school."