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Alison Knott, 42, from Bispham, who worked at Blackpool's Park School, was walking with a group of hikers on a marked footpath in Austria when she lost her footing and tumbled down the rocky ravine.

Mountain rescue workers in an emergency helicopter later found the body 300ft down at the bottom of the rock face, according to local reports.

Head injuries

Medics confirmed she had died from head injuries sustained in the fall.

Husband Kevin, 43, a teacher at the school, was treated for shock and is still believed to be in Austria in Hart, Tyrol.

Headteacher Keith Berry said: "This is absolutely tragic news and our thoughts are with Kevin, her husband, at this very sad time. Alison and Kevin met at school and married in October '98 so they both have a long and happy association with Park School.

"Alison was a highly valued and very popular member of our school community. She had been with us for 16 years and because of her ability was promoted to a Higher Level Teaching Assistant. Indeed, she had just graduated with a foundation degree and was planning to take unpaid leave next year to qualify as a teacher so she had everything to look forward to.

"This news will be very upsetting to both pupils and colleagues. Alison was a larger than life character, the life and soul of the staff room, a real extrovert, her tragic and untimely death will leave a huge hole at Park School."