SIR – It was with great sadness and shock I discovered recently the passing of a young woman I knew, Kirsty Deakin (nee Ridehalgh), at the very young age of 25. She had been diagnosed with cancer.

I went to school with her dad Ian Ridehalgh, and I first talked to Kirsty about seven or eight years ago when she worked in Cross Hills Co-op, later at Hard Ings Road Co-op and the jewellers Herbert Brown’s.

I was always struck by her polite, cheerful personality. It was always a pleasure to meet her.

As a request to all readers of this letter, in memory of her life I would ask if, out of your goodness of heart, you would make a donation to Manorlands. Any amount will do. I will do so, too. None of us are immune to this disease.

My deepest sympathies to Kirsty’s parents, Ian and Lucie, husband Steven, daughter Abby, her sisters and brother, and all other relatives, friends and colleagues. She will be sadly missed. It was a pleasure knowing you, Kirsty.

Jamie Lawrence Curtis, Ellers Road, Sutton