Members of staff have come together to pay tribute to the joint CEO of a popular Stratford based children’s centre who passed away this week.

Sally Goldsworthy, who was considered to be the “driving force” behind Discover, in High Street, passed away on Wednesday following a two-year battle with cancer.

A statement from Discover reads: “Her determination to create a magical place where children could, through creative play, learn to love stories and literature was unrelenting. Sally knew there was opportunity for real impact that would affect children for the rest of their lives.

“Her passion, dedication, creativity and sheer energy was an inspiration to everyone around her. She has been instrumental in building an extra-ordinary place.

“Most importantly, Sally believed in the power of fun. She loved silliness and play, and developed and supported work that used these attributes as the cornerstones to touch and change people’s lives.

“Sally affected so many people in the most wonderful of ways. She supported writers, illustrators, performers, and artists of every sort. She developed and shared fantastic ideas with partners, funders, and colleagues. She put children at the heart of everything she did.

“We will miss her incredibly at Discover, as a colleague and a friend. We know that many, many others will miss her too. We will honour her vision and reflect her values in the ongoing wonderful world of Discover.”

Sir Robin Wales, Mayor of Newham, has also paid tribute calling Sally “a much loved figure”.

He said: “I am saddened to hear the news regarding Sally Goldsworthy. Sally was a much loved figure in Newham and her passionate work to encourage reading and creativity in schoolchildren was known throughout the borough and East London.

“I always enjoyed working with her and our close partnership meant together we could ensure Newham families could visit the centre every summer for free.

“Sally leaves an inspiring legacy and she has been incredibly important to Newham, encouraging children to use their imagination and helping to inspire a life long love of reading.

“The Discover Centre is a unique London destination for children and I am proud she chose to establish it in Stratford. I pass on my deepest sympathies to all her family and friends.”

Discover is the UK’s first hands-on creative centre for children and families and the only story centre in London.