A POPULAR PCSO from Ledbury has died following a 15-month battle with cancer.

Heather Mika died on April 10 after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer more than a year earlier.

The mum-of-three joined the local policing team in Ledbury in 2008, having previously worked at force HQ in Hindlip.

Sergeant Dan Pilkington said: "She has been a familiar face to local residents in the town and surrounding areas since.

"Heather took great pride in her work with the community and approached her role with passion and commitment, insisting on walking round the town in the pouring rain despite the offers of lifts with colleagues.

"Heather spent most of her time talking to local residents and especially engaging with the town's youth. She could usually be found on the recreation ground or at a local school.

"Heather regularly visited local groups and schools to deliver messages with her bubbly sense of humour."

Ms Mika fell in love with Ledbury after one visit and knew she wanted to live and work there.

She would often comment on how lucky she was to have a job that she loved and a fantastic location to work.

Sgt Pilkington added: "She desperately wanted to return to the role she loved. Her perpetual smile and deeply caring attitude will be sadly missed."

Ms Mika had three children, Dominic, 31, Alison, 29 and Annie, 27 with Pat. She also leaves behind two grandchildren- Ryan, five and Rudi, three.

She moved to Fownhope eight years ago from Birmingham.

Her family has extended an open invitation to any member of the community that knew Heather and would like to attend her funeral.

It will be held on April 29 at 11.30 am at St Michael and All Angels Church, Ledbury.