Members of the Ross-on-Wye and District Cycle Club have been shocked at the news of the death of Jennifer Hill in a cycling accident in the Pyrenees.Jennifer, and her husband, Adam, have been active and popular members of the Cycle Club for several years and have become good friends to many members of the Club.

Ms Hill, a director of education at the Vale of Glamorgan Council, was a passionate cyclist. Her husband and daughters paid tribute to her, they said: “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.”

Neil Moore, the Vale of Glamorgan Council Leader said Ms Hill was “leaving a space that could not be filled” and paid tribute to her work within the community.

He said: “Jennifer was a public servant of great distinction,” he said. “She was an incredibly able, professional, and compassionate director for this council and someone who truly epitomised the values of her profession.

“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.”

Ross and District Cycling Club Chairman Mark Lavington said that the members’ thoughts are with Adam and the family.

He told the Ross Gazette that the first club event following the tragic news was a 10 mile Time Trial. As a small tribute to Jennifer, and to show Adam and the family that they are very much in members’ thoughts, Jennifer was named as a notional first rider, and all those present held a minute’s silence during her time slot. He added: “Jennifer will be much missed by all of her cycling friends in Ross.”

Due to repatriation, the funeral arrangements have not been finalised.