A Welsh woman has died after falling into a ravine while cycling on holiday in the Pyrénées region of France.
Jennifer Hill, who was director of education at the Vale of Glamorgan council, was described as "a devoted mother and treasured wife" by her devastated family.
In a statement, they said: "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.”
The tragic accident happened above the resort of Gavarnie on Sunday.
Conditions were reported to have been foggy at the time and firefighters involved in the emergency told a local newspaper there was poor visibility at the time of the accident.
They are reporting Ms Hill could have missed the turn because of fog and fallen into a ravine.
Vale of Glamorgan council managing director Rob Thomas paid tribute to Jennifer, who was the former director of learning and skills.
Mr Thomas said: “I, like colleagues across the council, was shocked to hear the news of this Jennifer’s tragic death.
“Those of us who worked with Jennifer will remember her not only as being hugely talented but also for being extremely committed to her role, and to improving the standard of education in the Vale.
"Jennifer’s work was admired far beyond the Vale of Glamorgan and her tragic death is a great loss to her profession. The greater loss is of course to Jennifer’s family, friends and colleagues. Having worked closely with her for several years I feel very fortunate to have been able to call Jennifer both a friend and colleague. Her compassion was unbreakable, in even the most testing of circumstances, and she will be deeply missed.”
Neil Moore, council leader, said: “Jennifer was a public servant of great distinction. 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.”
As well as her role with the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Jennifer Hill was a key figure within the regional Central South Consortium Joint Education Service, of which she was lead director in 2013.
Jennifer joined the Vale of Glamorgan Council in 2012 having previously worked as Assistant Director of the Schools and Children’s Services Department for the London Borough of Enfield.
