Following the publication on "Bishop Monkton Today' on New Year's Day of a tribute by her family to former BM resident Fiona Bailey, a flood of messages of condolence have reached us. Fiona, who was just 51, died suddenly in November. She lived here from 2007 to 2022 and was heavily involved in various aspects of village life. A remembrance service is to be held for Fiona in the Anglican Church in the village at a date still to be arranged.

Here are some of the messages of sympathy we have received directly or via the village Facebook Group.

"It is very moving to read this tribute to Fiona, and see this beautiful photo as we well remember her, the bright, kind and smiling Fiona. We were so sad to hear of her passing away and we are thinking a lot about Dennis, Ellie, Oliver and Max. A lovely family to who we would like to send our sincere condolences." Beatrice Atkinson

"Annabelle and Benjamin have very fond memories of babysitting for you and lovely chats with Fiona. Such a sad loss of a lovely lady xx" Heidi Ayliffe

"Thank you for sharing. It’s so lovely to hear of Fiona’s background. Such a warm, kindhearted person. Much missed". Sally Cowling

"A beautiful, beautiful soul x." Mandy Coupland

"So many memories which make me smile when I think of Fiona. Such a kind, selfless and caring lady whose family were her absolute world. Thinking of you all. xx" Katey Smithson

"Fiona was so very kind to me when we first moved to this village, I shall always remember her kindness. I was so very sad to hear the sad news. Sending much to Dennis and her three wonderful children". Becky Curtis

"Such a lovely lady, sending love to you all at such an awful time xx" Amy Harper

Fiona's husband Dennis Bailey responded to the messages:-
"I would like to thank everyone from the village for their kind words of support and the cards. It is comforting for us to know that Fiona has so many friends in the village."

We will bring you details of the Remembrance service for Fiona as soon as we have them.

For another look at the family's tribute to Fiona click here