‘Much-loved member of the hospice family’
A HOSPICE has joined tributes to a ‘compassionate’ counsellor who died after a house explosion.
Hazel Wilcock, 61, lost her life in the tragedy on East View in Summerseat, after her mid-terrace house was reduced to rubble.
Emergency services rushed to the quiet residential village shortly after 9.20pm on Wednesday night.
The body of Ms Wilcock was found inside the property, as fire crews searched the wreckage.
Hazel, who was described by friends as a ‘ beautiful soul inside and out’ had worked as a senior counsellor at St Ann’s Hospice.
Chief executive Rachel McMillan said: “Everyone at the hospice is extremely shocked and saddened by the tragic news of
Hazel’s death, and our thoughts are with her family and loved ones.
“Hazel had been part of the St Ann’s team for four years as a senior counsellor in our Patient and Family Support Team, working hard to support the people we care for and those closest to them.
“She was a muchloved member of the hospice family, always compassionate, and always focused on ensuring the very best care for our patients.”
At the time of her death, Hazel had been working on a project to develop psychological support services during the pandemic, particularly helping to support people experiencing grief.
“It was extremely important to her that she was still able to help despite all of the restrictions that
Covid- 19 has brought,” Ms McMillan added.
“She cared for so many local people, and she will be hugely missed by all of us.”
Neighbour June Winsche said she had met Hazel through the village committee and from walking their dogs together.
“She had lots of friends and loved entertaining and I’d always be invited over for meals,” June said.
“She cared for my dogs when I was away and even took in my son when we had to temporarily move out of our home when we had renovations done.
“Hazel was just so kind. We went on retreats together and she took time with me when I was going through a very bad time. She was very inspirational and pushed me to start my own business because she believed in me so much.”
Close friend, Amanda Webber, wrote on Facebook: “A beautiful soul inside and out. It was a pleasure to have known you and to have worked for you, may you Rest in eternal peace and your smile shine down on us all. You shall be sadly missed by all who knew you. R. I. P Hazel xx.”
Andrea Procter wrote: “Hazel you were such an inspiration and fantastic friend. Devastating news. So sad.”
Paul Kent wrote: “It was always ‘Paul,you better have brought me something nice’.... RIP Hazel, lovely lady!”
Nick Wood said: “RIP Hazel, a lovely lady and valued customer of mine.”
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