Charity art fair held in memory of popular teacher (From Streatham Guardian)

Charity art fair held in memory of Putney teacher Christine Wright

1:40pm Monday 7th January 2013 in News By Alexandra Rucki

A charity art fair was held in memory of a popular teacher who died of methothelioma.

The memorial art fair was organised by friends and family of Christine Wright, who died of the cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.

It took place in The Thames Rowing Club, in Putney Embankment, on Sunday in aid of Methothelioma UK.

Art work included a signed print by Richmond based wildlife photographer Alex Saberi, work by Michael Ward, of Tooting, a hand carved bench by Matt Cave as well as pottery and glassware.

Mrs Wright, who died aged 67 in November 2011, lived in Westleigh Avenue, Putney, and in Gressenhall Road, Southfields.

She taught PE at Southfields School, and went on to teach at Heathmere Primary School and Streatham Primary School.

Before teaching she worked in the National Youth Theatre and played alongside Dame Helen Mirren, Hywell Bennett and Kenneth Cranham.

She enjoyed an active lifestyle before being diagnosed with the disease and took part in swimming, rambling and sailing at the weekends.

Widower John Wright said: "It takes 40 years to develop and then suddenly this very fit woman was left with only a year to live.

"Now it is known one hopes there will not be any more people that contract it."

Daughter Gemma Wright said: "Mum was loved and will be remembered by so many people, both locally and in the wider community.

"She was a bright shining star for us all, and anything we can now do to alleviate the suffering of other victims of this disease is the best memorial we can give her."