Sittingbourne man continuing legacy of his Milstead and Frinsted Primary head teacher mum

A former primary school head teacher who died less than two years ago is continuing to leave a strong legacy within her community.

Katherine Baker was just 49 when she died from ovarian cancer in August 2021 while head of Milstead and Frinsted Primary School, near Sittingbourne.

Her death was felt by her family, pupils and fellow teachers at the School Lane site alike, with tributes labelling her as "a kind, caring and wonderful person".

The school has since created a number of memorials to commemorate Mrs Baker, with a bench and garden bearing the name of the teacher, who was head of the school for seven years.

Another hit hard by the tragedy was son Tom - who has followed in his mum's footsteps by becoming a teacher himself at Tunstall Primary .

The 26-year-old is also mirroring some of his mother's generous traits by deciding to set up an event in her honour.

He has created a charity football match made up of two teams, which include his friends.

The commemoration will take place at The Appleyard Sports Bar in Gore Court Road at midday on July 22.

Proceeds will be donated to Ovacome - a UK charity who provide care, support and treatment for those affected by ovarian cancer.

Mr Baker said: "It is set to be an exciting day with a 90-minute football match, a charity raffle, and a short talk from a member of Ovacome.

"A few local businesses have already donated, with 200-300 people expected to turn up.

"As people may have seen that number is high because mum was such a dedicated teacher and friend.

"We were quite a small family anyway as it was just mum, dad, my grandma, my aunt and myself, with mum's friends just as important to her.

"When she was first diagnosed in October 2018, she eventually got herself into remission six months after treatment so was given positive signs.

"But even after the cancer returned again later on, she kept on working and didn't let it define her.

"The treatment she had at The Royal Marsden in London was excellent and they certainly made her time better, and I think that the way they cared for mum was similar to how she made such a difference to others."

Those wishing to donate to Tom's charity match should click here.

Ovacome's support extends to the family and friends of those diagnosed with the illness, and the group work closely with doctors and other clinicians to ensure those diagnosed are given the most up-to-date treatment and care.