TRIBUTES have flowed for a Jennifer Hill, a Monmouth woman who lost her life while on a cycling trip in France.

The 57-year-old mother and wife is believed to have fallen into a ravine while cycling through the Pyrenees region on Sunday.

According to authorities’ reports to the local media the weather was poor at the time of the accident with fog leading to low visibility.

This is a devastating loss for Mrs Hill’s family who paid tribute to her in a statement:

“Jennifer was a devoted mother and treasured wife.  We are so proud of her dedication to her work and many achievements both in the Vale and earlier in her career.

She strove for nothing less than the best, whether it was cycling, running, or tending our beautiful garden.  Nothing can replace her.”

Mrs Hill was the Director of Learning and Skills at the Vale of Glamorgan Council, and her loss has also been felt within the council.

Rob Thomas, Managing Director of Vale of Glamorgan Council said: “I, like colleagues across the Council, was shocked to hear the news of this Jennifer’s tragic death.

“Those of us who worked with Jennifer will remember her not only as being hugely talented but also for being extremely committed to her role, and to improving the standard of education in the Vale.

“The greater loss is of course to Jennifer’s family, friends and colleagues. Having worked closely with her for several years I feel very fortunate to have been able to call Jennifer both a friend and colleague. Her compassion was unbreakable, in even the most testing of circumstances, and she will be deeply missed.”

Mrs Hill had been with the council since 2012 and had overseen the county’s best ever exam results, Council Leader, Councillor Neil Moore also paid tribute. He said:

“Jennifer’s work has had a very real impact on the prospects of learners of all ages in the Vale of Glamorgan. Her dedication to improving education was hugely respected both throughout the Vale and beyond.

“Jennifer’s passing is an absolute tragedy and a huge loss to her family, friends and colleagues. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her and will leave a space that cannot be filled.”