FRIENDS of a “one of a kind” woman who tragically passed away over the holidays are urging locals to help raise funds for her funeral.

Gael Fletcher, who lived in Lochgoilhead and had worked in Arrochar, died suddenly on Tuesday, January 2 aged just 49.

She leaves behind her husband, two teenage children, two adult children, and three young grandchildren.

Friends have now launched an online crowdfunder looking to raise £7,000 to help the family with the cost of Gael's funeral.

Jessica Lilly Reynolds, the organiser of the fund-raiser said: “Gael has left behind a grieving and utterly heartbroken family; this has been a huge shock and a massive loss for them all.

“Our hope is that with your help to raise funds we can come together as a community to help cover the costs involved with a funeral, to at least be able to try and ease just a little of the burden for this whole family.

“Should we be fortunate to raise any excess funds, these will go towards supporting her beloved family/children.”

Gael – a former early learning centre worker - was well loved in her community and was known for her caring and generous nature.

Jessica continued: “If a friend was ever in need no matter what the problem Gael was always happy to help no matter what time of day or night it was.

“Gael had previously worked at the early learning centre within Lochgoilhead Primary School, caring for a variety of young children, some of whom have various disabilities.

“She had a huge impact and influence in a lot of the younger children’s early learning, [and] Gael was very much loved and adored by all of the children.

“No matter what was going on for Gael she would always greet you with a big smile and was always so thankful for what she had.

"Gael truly was one of a kind.”

To donate to the fundraiser, visit Gofundme: www.gofundme.com/f/gael-fletcher.