Classic American cars honour Dorset teaching assistant

An unusual funeral procession took place in honour of a much-loved teaching assistant from West Moors who died at the age of 54.

Seven classic American cars followed the hearse to Poole Crematorium in recognition of National Canadian American Car Club member, Anne Hunt.

The mother of three and grandmother passed away in hospital on September 29 after a long battle with cancer. A collection is being made in her memory for St Mary’s C of E First School, where Anne worked with children with special needs.

Her husband Stephen said: “Anne devoted seventeen years to the school, first as a dinner lady, then as a helper and later as a teaching assistant – she had a lovely way with the children and loved her job.

“She was fantastic – she loved her family and enjoyed spending time with her three grandchildren. She was a proud member of the local classic American car club and did a lot of admin promoting forthcoming shows.

“We spent a great many weekends away with the club - she fell in love with the cars and with 1950s music and through the club we made some great friends. Having such wonderful cars driven by dear friends for her funeral procession is exactly what she would have wanted.”

The couple owned a 1958 champagne gold Buick, which followed the hearse. Other cars in the procession included a 1957 Cadillac, a 1960 Chrysler Saratoga, a 1958 Dodge, a 1955 Buick, a Chrysler 300F and a Cadillac Eldorado Seville.

Simon Dixon, Chair of Governors at St Mary’s C of E First School, said: “The staff and children here will greatly miss our dear friend Anne. She will be fondly remembered for her work with children who have special educational needs.

“Anne valued and understood the needs of each child and supported and helped to build their confidence and self-esteem – enabling them to successfully participate in all areas of school life.”

Anne leaves Stephen, three children: Daniel, Charlene and Donna and three grandchildren.

Donations in her memory can be made to St Mary’s C of E School, care of Lesley Shand Funeral Directors: 184 Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen, BH21 3LL.