Performing arts students are holding a memorial show in honour of a beloved tutor who devoted her life to her work.

Joan Walters was head of the performing arts department at Carshalton College for ten years.

She also had a successful career as a personal speech tutor – helping John Major when he was Prime Minister, Ian Duncan-Smith when he was leader of the opposition and David Davies when he was a cabinet minister.

She was busy preparing her last batch of college students for their final show when she became ill with septicaemia in June. She died on July 16 aged 65.

Sharon Phinbow, a dance teacher who worked closely with Mrs Walters said: “She had been poorly for a little while.

“Because she lived for the job she often disregarded her own health and well-being.

“She understood young people and made space for them. She encouraged them to fulfil their dreams.

“So many students have her to thank that they went on to university.

“She is a great loss to the college.”

Poignantly, Carshalton College closed its performing arts course just days before Mrs Walters death.

Jade Fisher, an ex-student organising the memorial, said: “I think it broke her heart a little.

“She lived for us and did everything she could for us. She was everyone's shoulder to cry on and gave the best advice.

“I was never a star student in school and did not do very well. Then I started the Performing Arts course and Joan changed my entire views of learning and helped me grow to love it.”

The memorial show, called “Sock it to 'Em”, is taking place at the Charles Cryer Theatre on Wednesday September 22 and Thursday September 23. It will be a mixture of song, dance and poetry and will include some of Mrs Walters favourite past performances. All profits will go towards funding a memorial bench and plaque in her honour.

Tickets cost £10 and are available through Secombe Theatre Box Office on 020 8770 6990