15 February 2023 , 20:36
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The family of a teacher and her seven-year-old daughter found dead on school grounds in Surrey have paid tribute to them.
Epsom College head Emma Pattison, 45, and daughter Lettie were discovered at their home on the site in the early hours of February 5.
Police believe husband and dad George Pattison had shot them both dead before killing himself, with a gun found at the scene.
Their loved ones have now spoken of their heartbreak following the "horrendous tragedy" in a statement issued through Surrey Police.
Emma was described as "everything one could hope for in a daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend, teacher and so much more" - and Lettie her "pride and joy".
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The family said: "We, the family of Emma and Lettie, would like to express our deepest, heartfelt thanks for the overwhelming support we have received over the past 11 days.
"Thank you to the immeasurable number of people and institutions who have written messages, sent flowers, paid tributes, held vigils or otherwise taken time to remember Emma and Lettie.
Police believe Emma and Lettie were killed by husband and dad George Pattison (PA)"We would like to thank Surrey Police for their sensitive and thorough handling of the on-going investigation into this horrendous tragedy and to the Epsom College Community, Croydon High and Danes Hill schools for their invaluable support.
"Thank you also to the media who have, largely, respected our privacy at this difficult time: we ask that they continue to do so.
"To see the esteem in which Emma is held by all who knew her is an enormous comfort.
Emma and Lettie's family have paid tribute (PA)"She was everything one could hope for in a daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend, teacher and so much more.
"We are an extremely close family and family was at the centre of Emma and Lettie’s universe.
"The Epsom College Community had become part of that universe for them both.
Police and security guards at Epsom College following the discovery (Surrey Live/BPM Media)"Seven-year-old Lettie was Emma’s pride and joy: an adorable, vibrant little girl with a compelling curiosity, a heart-melting smile and an intellect beyond her years. The two of them were inseparable and we take comfort in that they will remain so.
"Emma had a warm, welcoming smile and sparkling, blue eyes, full of optimism.
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"Over the last eleven days we’ve noticed the sky has been bright blue, with at times a warm glow of pink…"