Heartbreaking tributes have been paid to a ‘lovely’ mum who lost her battle against cancer.

Siobhan Gaskell, 32, of Blackburn had fallen ill last August and died on Wednesday this week.

She had been the head of the catering team at Samlesbury Hall.

Colleagues at the historic hall based just outside Blackburn said Siobhan was an ‘absolute rock and a pleasure to work with’.

She had been in her role for four years and is survived by her partner Decland and their four-year-old daughter Bella.

Samlesbury Hall said in a statement: “It is with very heavy hearts that we sadly announce the loss of one of our key team members here at Samlesbury Hall.

“Siobhan Gaskell sadly passed away on Wednesday, November 20, after a battle with leukaemia.

"She leaves her beautiful daughter Bella and her loving partner Declan as well as the rest of her family. 

“Siobhan was the kingpin of the Garden Room Eatery at the Hall. She kept the catering team working together to produce high-quality food and really cared for her work, the Hall, and the rest of the team both in the kitchen and out front. 

“She was an absolute delight to work with and we shall miss her so very very much.”

Visitors to the hall had posted their own tributes to Siobhan.

One read: “Our heartfelt sympathies to you all at Samlesbury and especially Siobhan’s family, sent with love.”

Another said: “A lovely person to talk to. Thoughts are very much with her family at this sad time.”

Another tribute read: “One of the most beautiful people I've ever met. Her beauty started within and radiated externally.

"Proud to have known her and will miss her terribly. All my love to her family.”

A further message said: “I’m really sorry to hear this, Siobhan was lovely and made me feel so welcome during my time at the hall. Heartbreaking.”