A LOCAL legend and 'inspiration' who taught hundreds of kids in Falmouth and Cornwall has sadly passed away at the age of 93.

Barbara Martin, who was a mother of seven, and the youngest of six children herself, passed away on Sunday, July 31.

Barbara spent a large portion of her life in education and taught for 38 years, with 26 of those years based in Falmouth, most notably at King Charles Church of England Primary School.

Described as a 'local legend' by those who knew her, Barbara, was also an amateur artist and painted hundreds of pictures as well as being a stalwart of All Saint's Church on Killigrew Street in Falmouth.

Barbara also spent many years helping out the local community and was also a member of the local 'Wall Group' who would swim in the sea off Falmouth coast every day, an activity she continued until well into her 90's.

While still teaching, Barbara would also achieve feats that would be unheard of nowadays, such as teaching 60 kids to swim at a time.

Later on in life, having cared for so many herself, Barbara would then find herself cared for by those she had taught and looked after while she was a teacher.

Falmouth Packet: Barbara was an active member of the local community Barbara was an active member of the local community

Craig Martin, the youngest of Barbara's seven children who also happens to be a former headteacher at Redruth School, was happy to speak on behalf of his brothers and sisters, told The Packet: "She was very well-known, genuinely.

" I know everyone probably thinks that, but I think mum is one of those characters.

"She not only taught a lot of people at primary school, but she also did her own things.

"She had a very large family she never forgot, but equally, she was a friend to many.

"She was an inspiration to a lot of people in that she remained active and a participant in so many activities locally in Falmouth, as well as teaching hundreds, if not thousands, in the community.

"I think she's that sort of person, an interesting person, who was always active and wanted everyone to achieve and go on to productive lives.

"A very strong character who believed in getting on with things in life, that's my mum."

Barbara's funeral service will take place at All Saints Parish Church Falmouth, on Tuesday, August 16, 11.00 a.m