A WELL-LOVED member of the community sadly passed away earlier this month, (Friday, September 1) after suffering from a short illness.

Co-general Manager of HEALS of Malmesbury, Ceri Pulvireni, 61, has left a hole in the hearts of many people in the town after dying suddenly from a chest infection.

The charity are shocked by the sudden passing of Mrs Pulvireni who was a huge asset to HEALS which provides support for those in poverty, and those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged. She was a friendly face for everyone she helped, who oozed positivity, and went above and beyond for everyone.

Gavin Grant, Chairman of HEALS Trustees said: “It shocked everybody. We didn’t expect somebody who goes into hospital for a chest infection for some tests to die aged 61.

“She was very much part of this town and community, a very caring person who thought about the wellbeing of other people and not herself. She didn’t do it for the limelight, only concerned about others.

“She was a lovely and a very happy, outgoing person,” he explained.

“There is a huge hole in the organisation, and an even bigger one in our hearts.”

Mrs Pulvireni did a lot of work in the community, helping with summer activities for children, and the annual community Christmas lunch, attended by many lonely and vulnerable elderly people. She was also founder of the River Valleys Trust, and a very fine artist.

She was a very private person, and her family have said her funeral will reflect that.

They have asked anyone wishing to acknowledge Ceri to make a donation at HEALS of Malmesbury, or by visiting their Local Giving page www.localgiving.org/appeal/ceripulvirenti/