TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular and well-respected doctor who has died aged 43.

Dr Julie Hearsey worked at the Derwent Surgery, in Malton, for five years and lived in Kirkbymoorside. She emigrated to Australia with her husband, Barry, and daughters, Meg and Isobel, aged 10 and eight, 18 months ago.

Originally from Manchester, Dr Hearsey had previously spent seven years in Australia, coming back to England after her daughters were born.

Her close friend, Sara Gray, who lived near the family in Kirkbymoorside, said Dr Hearsey had been diagnosed with cancer only a couple of weeks after moving to Australia.

“It has been an horrendous year for her family and friends,” she said.

“Julie was a very dear and close friend and was also a very popular and well-respected doctor.”

Dr Clive Diggory, a partner at Derwent Surgery, said: “As a colleague we all admired and respected Julie. She was much-loved by patients and we were saddened to lose her to Australia and devastated when we were told that she had died at such a young age.

“Our thoughts and sympathies go to her husband, children and family.”

A message posted on the Inglis Medical Centre website, where Dr Hearsey worked after moving to Australia, said: “We are left with memories of a dedicated doctor and wonderful friend, who will always remain a part of the Inglis Medical Centre family.

“Through everything, you fought hard and always maintained your sense of humour, dignity and grace. In the coming months we will draw strength from your gifts of friendship and positive outlook.”

Dr Hearsey’s funeral took place in Sale, Victoria, in Australia, on December 17.