FRIENDS and family of a former Goodwick woman who lost her battle with breast cancer will remember her life this week.

Ria Mcgauley, nee John, died on Thursday, July 26, after a brave fight against the disease.

The 38-year-old mother of two was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in August 2016, having battled metastatic breast cancer in 2011 while pregnant with her youngest son.

Ria had moved to Bath but still had many friends and family in north Pembrokeshire.

In late 2016 the community of Fishguard and Goodwick came together to raise money to support Ria and her family in a fun run.

The event snowballed to include entertainment, refreshments, live music, 5k and 10k fun run routes to suit all abilities, an auction, a raffle and a scratch card competition. It raised nearly £9,000 in total.

"So many friends and family from near and far came together to show their love and support," said one of the organisers, Jemma Fowler.

Other fund-raising events followed both locally and in Bath, where Ria settled with her husband Tony and her beloved young sons Osian and Alfie, organised by an army of loyal family and friends.

"Ria touched so many," said Jemma. "She was truly inspirational and always making people laugh. She had a big heart and wicked sense of humour.

"Her friends and family are truly grateful for the many laughs they had. She will be greatly missed by all."

Other friends and acquaintances remembered Ria on social media.

"I have just found out that a very special lady from my home town has passed away," said Paul Johnson, former landlord of Fishguard's Coach House pub.

"Ria Mcgauley may you rest in peace. Throughout my time in the Coach House you were one of the funniest people that came through the doors, your humour was very contagious.

"Throughout your illness you never gave up and you fought it with a smile, I will always remember you. To all your family my deepest condolences."

Jacqui Scarr, Fishguard's former Jemima Nicholas, also shared happy memories of Ria.

"I'm grateful to have met you," she wrote. "You were an angel just waiting for your wings with your infectious smile and naughty twinkling eyes.

"You were the most positive happy lady that I've ever had the pleasure to know, always caring about everyone else. Well heaven sure is a better prettier funnier place to be with you.

As well as her husband Tony and sons Osian and Alfie, Ria also leaves behind as her Mum, brother, Darren and younger sister, Lucy as well as all her family and friends.

Ria's funeral will be held on the 16th of August at 11.45 at Haycombe Top Chapel and crematorium followed by a wake at Old Culverhayes Rugby Club. Her family is asking as many people as possible to bring pink balloons to let go at the wake as a tribute.

There will be immediate family flowers only. Those wishing to make a donation can do so; a memorial fund will be set up for Ria's sons, so they can create happy and fun times as she wanted. Details will be made available for those wishing to donate.

Ria's family have thanked everyone for their kindness and support.