A heartbroken family have paid tribute to a "kind and caring mum" who has lost her fight to cancer, aged just 29.

Cheryl Calver, from Murston, had been trying to make the most of her final weeks after learning the disease had spread earlier this year, and a fundraising page was set up so she could make lasting memories for her children.

But she passed away just four days after her friends and family held an early surprise 30th birthday party, in case she was not around to mark the real day in the summer.

Cheryl was a mum-of-three and step-mum to partner Lee Macey's four children.

Her 10-year-old stepson, also called Lee, said: "She wasn't my mum but she did what a mum would do.

"If any one of us kids cried she was there and never judged.

"I'd like everyone to help make her funeral to be how she wanted it."

His eight-year-old sister Kayla added: "Cheryl was a kind, caring woman who did everything for us.

"We love Cheryl and that won't pass.

"Cheryl will be watching us from up there and went away without pain. I love you Cheryl."

The former nursery assistant manager, of Wykeham Road, was originally diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2015.

She had surgery and treatment before going into remission in 2016.

But pains returned in 2017 and she was told the cancer had come back and spread aggressively.

Treatment - which was helping to extend her life - was eventually stopped earlier this year after she developed an infection.

A fundraising page has now been set up to raise money for Cheryl's funeral, amid concerns among her loved ones that life insurers may not pay out.

The page, which was set up on Thursday, has so far brought more than £3,800 of the £5,000 target.

In a tribute to Cheryl, her friend Lianne Dmytruk said: “She was a true angel. She blessed everyone she met with her kindness, love and open heart.

"I am thankful I was lucky enough to have had her in my life.

"She taught me so many things: to be strong, positive and live life to the fullest.

"I will treasure the moments we shared and keep her in my heart forever."

• If you would like to donate click here.