A MONMOUTH mother-of-two has died after falling into a ravine on a cycling holiday in France.

Jennifer Hill, 57, was above the Gavarnie area of the Pyrenees when she reportedly missed a turn in fog and fell off the steep mountainside road.

Rescuers at the scene described conditions as foggy at the time with poor visibility at the time of the accident.

Mrs Hill, a keen cyclist, was on a cycling holiday with her husband in the Pyrenees before her death.

Tributes to the director of education at the Vale of Glamorgan council have described her as "a devoted mother and treasured wife".

A family spokesman said: "We are so proud of her dedication to her work and many achievements.

"She strove for nothing less than the best, whether it was cycling, running, or tending our beautiful garden. Nothing can replace her."

Vale of Glamorgan council managing director Rob Thomas paid tribute to Jennifer, who was the former director of learning and skills.

Mr Thomas, who worked with Mrs Hill for several years, said that he was "fortunate" to have been able to call her both a friend and colleague.

He added: "I, like colleagues across the council, was shocked to hear the news of this Jennifer's tragic death.

"Those of us who worked with Jennifer will remember her not only as being hugely talented but also for being extremely committed to her role, and to improving the standard of education in the Vale.

"Jennifer's work was admired far beyond the Vale of Glamorgan and her tragic death is a great loss to her profession. The greater loss is of course to Jennifer's family, friends and colleagues.

"Her compassion was unbreakable, in even the most testing of circumstances, and she will be deeply missed."

Neil Moore, council leader, said: "Jennifer was a public servant of great distinction. She was an incredibly able, professional, and compassionate director for this council and someone who truly epitomised the values of her profession.

"Jennifer's work has had a very real impact on the prospects of learners of all ages in the Vale of Glamorgan. Her dedication to improving education was hugely respected both throughout the Vale and beyond.

"Jennifer's passing is an absolute tragedy and a huge loss to her family, friends and colleagues. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her and will leave a space that cannot be filled."