A “WONDERFUL” journalist fighting a rare form of ovarian cancer has lost her battle aged 24.

Louise Hartley, from Bashall Eaves, bravely underwent two courses of chemotherapy since being diagnosed in March.

MORE TOP STORIES:

The popular reporter, who worked at the specialist farming publication Farmers Guardian, was also a member of the Lancashire Federation of Young Farmers Club (LFYFC).

In May, thousands of pounds was raised by the LFYFC for Macmillan Cancer Support and Field Nurse when they discovered Ms Hartley’s condition.

The farmers walked 36 miles from Clitheroe to Blackpool dressed as cows in the former Bowland High School pupil’s honour.

Ben Briggs, editor of the Farmers Guardian said Ms Hartley was a shining star of the editorial team.

He said: “From the very first moment Louise joined the Farmers Guardian, her talent for journalism, natural inquisitiveness and brilliant writing style really made her stand out.

“She also had a wonderful personality which meant she could coax the most in-depth information from interviewees, which is crucial in this job. She was a credit to the paper, to herself and to her family.

“To say we are devastated by her death would be an understatement and our thoughts and best wishes go to her family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

Ms Hartley’s diagnosis of small cell carcinoma of the ovary hypercalcemic was so rare doctors said it affects less than 500 people in the world a year.

A spokesman from the LFYC said: “We are completely devastated by the untimely death of fellow member and all-round ray of sunshine, Louise Hartley.

“Louise was the heart and soul of everything she participated in, be it stock judging, commercial dancing, choir singing or any of the other numerous competitions she jumped in to.

“A valued member of Clitheroe YFC, Louise put her all into everything she did, and was, and will always be, a true inspiration to everyone who knew her.

“A glowing personality and a ‘never give up’ attitude, Louise was one of a kind and LFYFC will always treasure her memory.”

A spokesman from Ms Hartley’s family thanked the reporter’s friends on Facebook for their kind messages.

It said: “Thank you for all of the kind messages posted over the past couple of days, it has given us a lot of solace in a difficult time.

“We are having a family burial at the farm in the next few days.

“We would like to invite anyone who wants to come to a celebration service at St Mary’s Parish Church, Clitheroe at 6.30pm on Thursday, July 21, followed by a celebration party at the Stirk House Hotel, Gisburn.”