TRIBUTES have been paid to a brave young mother from St Cleer who died suddenly after a fight against breast cancer.
Julie Cole, 32, died in Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, and her funeral was held at St Cleer parish church. She leaves a husband, Alan, and their daughter six-year-old Briony, as well as stepchildren Paul and Maria.
Julie's cousin, Tracy Davey, has highlighted Julie's courage following the announcement last year that she had breast cancer. Julie explained: 'All she worried about was everyone else, Briony, Alan and her Dad.' Tracy underwent an operation and treatment, and the packed funeral service heard how afterwards she was determined to get over the disease 'and lived her life to the full.'
However, her death came suddenly on October 22. Donations at the funeral service were for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.
Tracy, of Higher Tremar, spoke of how Julie, who helped care for the elderly at the local Manor House Residential Home, loved a challenge 'especially if it involved motor-bikes, or fast cars.' She added that, sadly, Julie 'was so proud of her fitness, going to the gym, playing badminton and even trying squash. However, most of all she loved her family and friends around, especially if there was a party involved.'
Tracy, who described Julie as her 'cousin, baby sister, hairdresser, fashion designer and mate' said that she was also probably the number one fan of the group Westlife.
She also said that when Briony was born they couldn't go anywhere 'without her buying something for her little girl.'
The many mourners were told that Julie's first job, on leaving school was with Rosecraddoc Pottery. She later worked at Manuscript, Moorswater, making friends in both places.
Representatives of St Cleer school were among those attending the funeral, which was conducted by Rev Keith Lanyon-Jones.