British cyclist dies after falling into a ravine in the Pyrenees

A British cyclist has been killed after falling in to a ravine while riding in the Pyrenees last weekend.

Jennifer Hill, 57, was on a cycling holiday with her husband in the area near Gavarnie, France when she fell. It is believed she missed a turning in foggy conditions and plunged off the roadside on a steep mountain descent.

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Mrs Hill, a mother from Monmouth in South Wales, was a director of education at the Vale of Glamorgan council, and was a passionate cyclist.

Gavarnie, part of the Gavarnie-Gèdre commune, sits on the border of France and Spain, around 50km south of famous cycling climbs like Hautacam and the Col du Tourmalet.

Those who attended the scene to try and rescue Mrs Hill said the conditions were foggy with poor visibility, potentially causing the accident.

Tributes from family, colleagues and friends poured in for Mrs Hill, who was described as 'a devoted mother and treasured wife'.

"We are so proud of her dedication to her work and many achievements," said a family spokesperson.

"She strove for nothing less than the best, whether it was cycling, running, or tending our beautiful garden. Nothing can replace her."

Council leader, Neil Moore said Mrs Hill was "leaving a space that could not be filled" and paid tribute to her work with the community.

"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."