Tributes have poured in following the death of Sarah Hughes, the "much-loved manager" of Tiny Stars Day Nursery in Edgeley, Stockport.
The nursery, which cares for babies and children up to the age of five, announced the "profoundly sad" news of Ms Hughes's passing on Facebook.
Nursery's heartfelt tribute
In its post, the nursery said: "We share the heartbreaking news that our much-loved Nursery Manager, Sarah, has sadly passed away.
"Sarah was an incredibly important part of the Tiny Stars family and dedicated so much of her life to caring for the children, supporting families and leading our wonderful team. She will be deeply missed by us all.
"We know that many of our families and children will have known Sarah well, and we understand that this news will come as a great shock and cause a great deal of sadness. At this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts and love are with Sarah’s family and loved ones."
More than 200 tributes
More than 200 people have since paid tribute to Ms Hughes in comments on the post, which had received more than 3,800 reactions at the time of reporting, the Manchester Evening News reports.
One mother wrote: "I'm so devastated to read this. Sarah was much more than the manager at my son's nursery. She has supported me through my own personal issues over the years even though she had so much to face herself. What a truly beautiful, caring and compassionate woman. Sending my heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues."
Another parent commented: "Absolutely heartbreaking to hear this. Sarah was always so lovely, the kindest soul and will be missed! She’s been a massive part of my family’s journey with Tiny Stars, thinking of you all."
Nursery to open as normal
The nursery said staff and families would "continue to support one another" and "continue to provide the love, care and stability that the children need", adding that this was what Sarah, who was a mum herself, would have wanted.
It said it would open as normal on Friday, but acknowledged that it would be an "incredibly difficult and emotional time" for the whole team.
It added: "If any families are able to keep their children at home tomorrow, we would be incredibly grateful. This would help us to support our staff and one another as we come to terms with this devastating loss. We completely understand that this will not be possible for every family, and we will of course continue to be there for those children who need to attend."
