Family pays tribute to ‘devoted mum’ killed on level crossing

Coombes’s “heartbroken” family said: “Kerry was a loving daughter, sister, partner and devoted mum who meant everything to us.

“She had the biggest heart, always put other people before herself and brought so much love, laughter and kindness into the lives of everyone who knew her.

“The loss of Kerry has left a hole in our family that can never be filled.”

Coombes was a “highly respected and dedicated” social worker who “cared deeply about the children she supported”, Lancashire County Council said.

Jacqui Old, executive director of Education and Children’s Services, said: “Kerry brought compassion, professionalism and a strong sense of commitment to her work, and made a real difference to people’s lives, .

“She was a valued member of the team and will be greatly missed by her colleagues and by all those who knew her.”