TRIBUTES have been paid to the woman who was instrumental in making Bridgwater Flower Show such a success over the past 25 years.

In February it was announced that the 2019 Bridgwater Flower Show would not be taking place due to the ill health of organiser Jackie Sealey.

Sadly Jackie passed away on March 1 at her home in Wembdon at the age of 69.

Jenny Forrest of Bridgwater Flower Show said: “It is a very sad loss.

“Jackie has been a great friend and mentor to me in regards to the Flower Show.

“She really was Bridgwater Flower Show, and has been for the last 25 years.”

Mrs Forrest said Jackie was very hardworking but always smiling, and a very positive influence with the volunteers making the flower show possible.

Jackie was very community-minded person, having been chairman of governors at Otterhampton School, a parish councillor in Combwich for nine years - seven of which she was chairman.

Jackie also founded the first baby clinic in Combwich which she ran for 10 years, before later running her own business carrying our administration and book-keeping for small businesses.

Mrs Forrest: “We are planning to bring back Bridgwater Flower Show in 2020 as a tribute to Jackie.

“She will be greatly missed and our thoughts her with her family.”

Jackie Sealey’s funeral will was held at St Mary’s Church in Bridgwater town centre.