A Rutland county councillor and teacher at Oakham School has died.

Hannah Edwards died suddenly overnight and tributes have been paid today by the authority, which will lower its flag as a mark of respect and has also cancelled tonight's meeting.

Born in Durham, she had lived in Oakham for the past 18 years and worked as a science teacher at the private school. She studied Physics with Astrophysics at Durham University followed by a PGCE in teaching Science and a Masters in Education. 

In a media interview she had said her hobbies included aerobatics in small planes, and she was a cat lover.

She was elected to the council last year as a Liberal Democrat and represented the Oakham North East ward.

Hannah was elected to the council last year as a Liberal Democrat (Rutland County Council).

Leader of the council Gale Waller said today: "Rutland County Council is hugely saddened to have received news of the death of Cllr Hannah Edwards. 

"Cllr Edwards was a bright and enthusiastic person who was passionate about representing her constituents in Oakham and the wider Rutland community. She carried out her responsibilities as a councillor with great care and consideration, as well as bringing balance and good humour to discussions at Council.

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"Cllr Edwards was also a teacher at Oakham School and will be missed by everyone who knew and worked with her.

 "The county flag outside the Council's offices will be lowered in tribute to Cllr Edwards, while we are also taking steps to cancel tonight's Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting. A book of condolence will be opened at Oakham Library for anyone who wishes to pay their respects.

 "The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Rutland County Council remain with Cllr Edwards' family and friends, who will need time and privacy following this unimaginable loss."

The school has been approached for comment.