Pope Francis sends sympathy to murdered teacher's family

Pope Francis has expressed sympathy to the family of Ann Maguire and all those affected by her death in a message conveyed by the Vatican's Ambassador to Britain.

Archbishop Antonio Mennini, in a letter to the Diocese of Leeds, spoke of the "spiritual closeness" of Pope Francis with all those affected by the tragedy including Mrs Maguire's family, friends, colleagues and the community of Corpus Christi Catholic College.

In a letter to the apostolic administrator of the diocese, Monsignor John Wilson, Archbishop Mennini asked for the message of "sincere sympathy" to be conveyed on behalf of himself and the Pope.

"I assure you of my prayers for the repose of the soul of Mrs Maguire and for the consolation and strengthening of all those persons close to her and all those who mourn her sudden death," Archbishop Mennini said.

"May the Lord grant her eternal rest and the reward of her life of dedication and of service to young people and to education."