Tributes are being paid to the Beacon’s former receptionist who died last week.

Dawn Fryer was the first face that visitors to the Beacon office’s former home in Cornwall House on Monnow Street and became a firm favourite with anyone bringing in a late obituary notice or letter for the editor.

She would always have a kind word and a smile for anyone who wanted to place an ad, or bring in something for the attention of the editor.

Devoted to her husband Tom who pre-deceased her, she was popular with the staff who could rely on her to sort out any problems with submissions before they got any further than the front desk.

Having seen many editors pass through the doors of the Beacon offices, she remained one of the members of staff that held everyone together in times of a minor crisis, and lead the way when it came to times of camaraderie, especially when it came to the obligatory birthday cake for any member of staff who enjoyed another milestone during working hours.

She was also the voice of reason and would soon sort out little hiccups that always seemed to happen on a press day.

Neil from Ernest Heal remembers he would often come in past the deadline with a late obituary notice and she would always manage to get it in the paper that week for him.

“it was a sad moment to hear of her death after she was fondly remembered throughout all the time I was fortunate to work for the Beacon” said photographer Desmond Pugh.

“She was our receptionist from the early days when Ken Goodwin was editor in the 1990s and was everyone’s favourite staff member”.

Former Accounts Executive Kath Evans said “ she was the friendly face when you walked in the door. Always happy to join in with others, on nights out especially”.

Former Sales Executive Suzy Mills remembers Dawn fondly. “Dawn was always kind and caring to me, I loved bumping into her around town and she always had time for a chat. Such sad news and a much loved member of the community who will be dearly missed. “

Former Accounts Manager Joy Bowen said: “ Dawn, my true and loyal friend. Treasured memories of a beautiful lady whose kindness and support will be deeply missed but never forgotten. “

Former Production guru Caroline Hogan added,” I am so sad to hear the news. We had such a lot of laughs at the Beacon. One of the funniest was when she was on reception and answered the phone with ‘please can you help me . She was a lovely person and is going to be missed by so many xxxx “

Accounts Executive Della Lovering added: “Such sad news. I will remember Dawn fondly and enjoyed our time working together. She was a lovely person and a good laugh! She will be sorely missed by many

She also had a passion for theatre and was often seen enjoying a show with Tom.