The family of Melksham woman Nicola Robertson are trying to come to terms with her death from cancer, aged 28.

Mrs Robertson, known to everyone as Nic, died at the Royal United Hospital, Bath, on Friday, 11 months after she was diagnosed with the disease.

She grew up in Melksham and attended the George Ward School, moving to Chippenham in 2003, where she lived with her husband, Adam, and children Kristen, 11, Brooke, eight, and Caleb, four.

She was a support worker for Mencap, caring for adults with learning difficulties.

Her mother, Bev Viveash, of Melksham, said: “It has been difficult for the children, but they are being so good and keeping everyone going.

“We’re all very upset, but we have got to hold on to the fact that she was no longer in the pain she was in. She spent most of her time at her house, but did stay with us for a little while, so we were quite fortunate she didn’t spend much time in hospital.

“We want to thank everyone at the William Budd ward and the oncology department at the RUH for their care and support, and everyone at the Giffords Surgery in Melksham, who have also been there for us.”

Following her diagnosis last year, she raised more than £1,700 for the hospital’s Forever Friends Appeal with a coffee morning at her parents’ home.

Mrs Robertson was a regular skittles player, and spent most Friday nights at the West End Club in Chippenham, she also enjoyed holidays with her extended family, who have fond memories of their time caravanning in Dorset and Porthcawl.

At her request, friends and relatives will wear bright colours for the funeral on Thursday at 10am at the West Wiltshire Crematorium.

A collection during the service will support the appeal.