Epsom College deaths: Heartfelt tributes left in memory of Emma Pattison & family

Heartfelt tributes have poured in after Epsom’s College’s headteacher Emma Pattison, her 7-year-old daughter Lettie and husband George, 39 were found dead on the school grounds on Sunday morning (February 5). Mrs Pattison took up the role of head at the prestigious private school last year and was said to ‘enrich the lives’ of the children she worked with.

An investigation is being carried out by Surrey Police but so far it is believed to be an ‘isolated incident’ with no third-party involvement. Hundreds of tributes have been left outside the school gates in memory of the family.

Tributes left to Epsom College’s Emma Pattison

A card was left in memory of the head teacher which read: "Emma Pattison, your character and talents will inspire others for many years. Thank you." Meanwhile, school children laid flowers in tribute to Lettie, referring to her as a "beautiful", "funny" and "intelligent" seven-year-old.

One card was attached to a bunch of flowers that read, "fly high in heaven Lettie" in a blue and purple hot air balloon. Another child left a cut-out squirrel with a pink, orange and yellow tail and "Lettie" written across it.

Outside Croydon High School in south London - where Mrs Pattison was head for six years until last August and where Lettie was also a pupil - mourners also left flowers as the school day ended.

Dr Alastair Wells, Chair of the Board of Governors at Epsom College, said: “On behalf of everyone at Epsom College, I want to convey our utter shock and disbelief at this tragic news.

"Our immediate thoughts and condolences are with Emma’s family, friends and loved ones, and to the many pupils and colleagues whose lives she enriched throughout her distinguished career."

The flag of Epson College - where senior boarding pupils’ fees can reach more than £42,000 a year - was flying at half mast in the wake of the tragedy.

Police statement on Epsom College deaths

Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey said, “On behalf of Surrey Police, my team, and I, I first want to express my sincerest condolences to the friends and family of Emma, Lettie and George, as well as to the students and staff of Epsom College, for their tragic loss. I want to give my assurance that we will conduct a thorough investigation into what took place last night, and hope to be able to bring some peace in these traumatic circumstances. I would ask that their privacy is respected at this very difficult time.”

Inspector Jon Vale, Epsom and Ewell’s Borough Commander, said: “We’re aware that this tragic incident will have caused concern and upset in the local community. While this is believed to be an isolated incident, in the coming days, our local officers will remain in the area to offer reassurance to students, parents, teachers, and the local community. I would like to thank the school and the community for their understanding and patience while the investigation continues.”

There is currently a significant police presence around Epsom College in Surrey and the surrounding area. Police would like to thank the local community for their understanding while officers continue their investigation.