TRIBUTES have poured in for a 'beloved' former councillor from Almondsbury who died last Thursday, aged 62.

Sheila Cook had dedicated her life to helping others, serving as a district and county councillor for the village for 19 years, from 1996 to 2015.

Having grown up in Chew Magna, Sheila met husband Paul and moved to Whitchurch in Bristol for a number of years, eventually settling in Almondsbury to raise their two children Oliver and Kate.

Her popularity in the community showed during her time in office, with an initial majority of only six multiplying rapidly by her final election to just under 800.

She also served as an Almondsbury Parish councillor for many years, including a period as chairman.

On top of her duties towards her community, Sheila also worked tirelessly to help young people, working as chairman of South Gloucestershire Council's children and young people’s select committee, and later as South Gloucestershire Council’s cabinet member for children and young people.

But Sheila’s work did not stop at local politics, acting as a trustee for a number of good causes and groups and served as chairman of the Avon Fire Authority.

After retiring in 2015, she was made an honorary aldermen of South Gloucestershire Council for her outstanding work.

This outstanding level of community service was made even more remarkable by the fact that Sheila suffered with a number of illnesses and respiratory problems for much of her life, as well as winning three bouts with cancer, having even been told that she had six weeks to live at the age of 15.

She passed away in Southmead Hospital, having picked up a stomach bug while she was there being treated for her illnesses.

Daughter Kate described her mother as a “massively inspirational person who was determined, motivated and passionate about everything she did.”

She said: “Sometimes I think about my willpower and drive and know it all comes from mum.

“She was a fantastic mother and a wonderful person. I am so proud of everything she achieved.

“Despite everything she went through, she never gave up and never thought anything was impossible.

“She was such a powerful and positive person, with a zest for life that I will truly miss.”

Almondsbury Parish councillor Diane Wilson paid tribute to her friend and former colleague, saying that the council “was lucky to have her.”

“Sheila added such dimension to the council,” she said. “As a person her advice and accountability was second to none. She loved nothing more than a good, honest and open debate.

“You could argued passionately against her at a meeting, but you would always walk out as good friends.

“Despite all her illnesses, she amazed me because of everything she did and achieved.

“Everyone on the council extends their condolences go out to the family of a hardworking, beloved councillor.”

South Gloucestershire Council leader Cllr Matthew Riddle also extended his condolences to her family, and said that she would be sorely missed.

He added: “During her long time on the council, Shelia made an outstanding contribution locally in her Almondsbury Ward, which she loved, but also in the council services for young people.”

The family have said they intend to hold a service at St Mary’s Church in Almondsbury to celebrate Sheila’s life, with a date to be announced in the coming days.