THE steering group for the West Bay Play Area has paid tribute to colleague Tess Hawley following her sudden death at home, aged 51. .

Tess came forward to join the group in 2014, following an appeal for the involvement of parents of children with severe disabilities to help develop an inclusive play area for all abilities.

A spokesman for the committee said: "Her contribution throughout brought an insight that would have otherwise been lacking.

"Faced with the challenge of raising a budget in excess of £90,000, it was Tess who was instrumental in achieving the first £260 with the help of local care workers involved with her son, Stuart.

"Not one to dwell on her own needs, however demanding, Tess was able to appreciate the bigger picture, and at the time stated at one of the many planning meetings she attended “I do feel that wheelchair access will help not only the young people like Stu with disabilities, but also the elderly carers like grandparents with sticks taking their grandchildren out on a Sunday, as well as parents trying to navigate their way around with buggies.” So it has proved.

"The West Bay Play Area has been an outstanding success, and will be a lasting tribute to Tess Hawley as much as to anyone involved.

"The Steering Group deeply regrets the loss of a caring and loving person."

The award-winning play area development was a partnership between the Bridport Young Persons Action Trust Charity and Bridport Town Council.

Since its opening the £89,000 project, realised, thanks to contributions from the town council, county and district councils, Olympic Legacy Fund, Round Table, Lions, Bridport Charities and BYPAT, together with donations from some local businesses, has garnered much praise.

It was officially opened in July 2016.