A ROAD has been named in memory of a popular teacher following a competition.

A pupil at St Andrews Junior School, in Hatfield Peverel, has named a road on a new Greenfields development Fitch Close, in memory of Joyce Fitch.

Mrs Fitch, first a pupil and later a teacher at the old Hatfield Peverel School for 26 years, died last year, aged 86.

Pupil Jasmine Hiom, eight, felt the competition was the perfect opportunity to honour Joyce, who also wrote three books about life in Hatfield Peverel, including one about the school that was demolished in 1991.

Joyce’s husband Mick was invited to Jasmine’s presentation to share the moment.

Debbie Mitchell, Greenfields’ customer co-ordinator, said: “It was an honour to work with St Andrews Junior School, as future generations will live and work in the area for many years to come.

“Congratulations to Jasmine and the runners-up for their fantastic and imaginative ideas.”

The road naming competition was organised as a new development needed its own road name.

The 10 entries were given to the local parish council to decide the winner. Fitch Close was chosen unanimously due to Joyce’s contribution to the village over the years.

The 25 energy-efficient homes in St Andrews Road will be completed in December 2 017.