A woman who devoted her life to helping others has died suddenly in hospital aged 49. Hazel Brear, of Cononley, was a natural leader who would turn her hand to anything. Many groups across Craven which owe a debt of gratitude to Hazel's tireless hard work, given without any financial reward. Her connection with Skipton Dolphins began when her children Alexandra and Maxwell joined the group. "After they stopped going, Hazel carried on because she felt she had to put something back into the club," said her husband, Stuart. "Her skill was in the human touch and in dealing with people, and she taught hundreds of children over the years."

As a mark of respect, Skipton's Aireville Pool closed its doors last Saturday when Hazel's funeral was taking place.

St Mary's Friday Friends in Carleton benefited from years of Hazel's experience, helping to prepare young people for confirmation. She was also an active member of the church's PCC and helped organise the visit by famous Daleswoman Hannah Hauxwell.

She also brought her own special touch to the village panto group, one of three stalwarts who wrote the script, organised wardrobe and make-up, as well as playing a part on-stage. An example of her amazing creative skills could be seen in the hundreds of beautifully decorated cakes she produced for family and friends.

Bradford-born she worked as a receptionist in a dental surgery before taking up a similar position in the hair-dressing department at Bradford's Brown Muff's, later transferring to the store's Skipton branch. She became a receptionist in one of the town's hairdressers, learning the skills of the trade before working for 10 years in a hairdressers in Cross Hills.

She met her husband in bizarre circumstances at the age of 15 during a visit to Bradford Ice Rink. She fell on the rink and Stuart accidentally cut the end of her finger off.

A trust fund has been set up in her memory, with donations being split between the Dolph-ins, Carleton School, Aireville Pool, St Mary's Friday Friends, Carleton panto group, Leeds General Infirmary and a national charity, to be decided upon. Donations can be made c/o Michael Rogowski, 3 Croft House Fold, Addingham, LS29 0LS.