TRIBUTES have poured in to a Swindon legend who inspired generations of students with her lifelong love of dance.

Mollie Tanner founded the Tanwood School for Performing Arts on Ferndale Road more than 70 years ago with her husband John and brightened the lives of hundreds of dedicated students.

Her daughter Pollyann took charge of the school after her mum retired and is continuing her legacy at the school’s Welton Road home.

Mollie died earlier this week and hundreds of people have offered their condolences and recalled fond memories of their time with her.

Linda Loveday said: “RIP Miss Mollie, you were a wonderful lady and teacher. It’s an honour to be part of the school again with my granddaughters now dancing.”

Sarah Webb said: “A very special lady who gave so much to the dancing world. Thanks for the memories.”

Ruth Stanford said: “So sad, such a lovely lady. Lots of young people have got a lot to thank her for. Wonderful shows and a brilliant teacher. She had such exciting tales to tell.”

Lynne Winwood said: “Sad news about the passing of a well-known and respected character. She will be fondly remembered by all who met her, I’m sure.”

Paul Langcaster said: “She was a true leading light in Swindon’s entertainment history.”

Many Tanwood School students performed in front of huge crowds of festive families at the Wyvern Theatre pantomimes.

A spokesman for the Wyvern Theatre said: “It is with much sadness that the we have heard of the passing of Mollie Tanner.

“Miss Mollie, as she was known to many, was a regular at the theatre producing countless shows and providing dancers from Tanwood for the pantomime from the beginning in 1972 through to 2003.

“There are many dancers and performers working in the industry today who can thank her for helping them develop their love of dance.

“Miss Mollie was a much loved and respected stalwart of the theatre; her enthusiasm, skills and passion were legendary.

“Our thoughts and sincerest condolences go to Pollyann and all the family at this sad time.”

Mollie’s parents, Sidney and Ethel Woodcock, lived in Osborne Street.

Sidney worked at the Railway Works as a carriage finisher, and Mollie was the third of five children.

Mollie raised the money for dance lessons by darning the family’s socks and passed on the things she learned to local children.

She was not yet 16 when she staged her first show at a church hall.