MOVING tributes have been paid to a caring mother who has lost her six-year battle with cancer.

Debbie Lewis, 38, of Sychdyn died last month after suffering from breast cancer and her death has left husband Andy, eight-year-old daughter Beth, parents Dennis and Anne and sister Kathy devastated.

Debbie, a keen walker and animal lover, was a former pupil at Mold Alun School and has been described as “a rainbow”.

Friend Kathy Jones, 36, of Nercwys said: “She was my best friend.

“Her death has left a huge void that I don’t think we will ever be able to fill.

“She was everything you could wish for rolled into one.

“She was a wonderful, wonderful person. She was like a rainbow, she brightened up ordinary places.

“Anyone who knew her knew she was a fun-loving, outgoing and caring person who had three passions in life – her husband Andy, daughter Beth, and Ivor, her English pointer.”

Despite her illness Debbie always remained positive and just weeks before her death was taken on a surprise helicopter trip to the summit of Moel Famau.

Kathy said: “The helicopter ride was emotional. It was an amazing experience.

During the illness she fought admirably. She fought to the end, she never gave up; she didn’t even think she was dying. She was amazing.”

Debbie’s funeral was held at Nercwys Church and donations helped to raise more than £1,300 for the RSPCA and Chester Zoo.

Kathy said: “There was a huge turnout at the funeral, it was a lovely service. She was well-known in the community.

“She will be dearly missed by everyone who knew her.”

The family now plan to adopt a rhino at Chester Zoo in her memory.

Dad Dennis, of Mold, said: “She really enriched our lives. Life will never be the same, she left us with wonderful memories. She always put other people before herself.”

The family thanked Becky Stark, Pete Johnston and Mold Cricket Club for the helicopter ride as well as Anne and Nigel Hill, John Turner, Dr Bodey and all family friends and neighbours for their support.