TRIBUTES have been paid to a woman whose 'love for life and happiness touched everyone'.

Julie Warren, who lived in Pickering, passed away suddenly on October 22 aged 50.

Born at home on July 4, 1971, Julie was the first child for Frank and Patty Hitchcock.

Her brother Philip arrived when Julie was two and though living miles apart in recent years, they always maintained a close sibling connection.

She went to school in Pickering and had a passion for animals and particularly horse riding, getting her first pony, Star at the age of 11 and competing at local shows and events.

After leaving school, Julie's first job was in a bank before decided to go to university to study teacher training.

Julie's family said: "Her first teaching post was at Amotherby Primary School and she was an enthusiastic and loved teacher by many.It was a happy time in her working life."

She went on to become deputy head at East Ayton school and latterly Julie worked at Lady Lumley's School in Pickering.

Julie met her husband Marc in 2002 and they were married in 2005, making their home in Scalby and going on to have two children, Robert and Sophie.

In 2010, they decided to move back to Pickering to be nearer her parents.

Here family said: "Happy years followed with the children, enjoying many holidays in their touring caravan and also abroad.

"Julie loved music and loved to dance, She always dressed well and was the life and soul of an gathering.

She was a devoted mum who dearly loved and always put her family first.

"Julie was the parent who arranged for cubs, scouts, brownies, guides, football, cricket and judo for Robert and Sophie to have fun.

"She was adored and loved and always will be.

They added: "Julie will live forever in our hears and be remembered as the funny, beautiful woman whose infectious smile and love for life and happiness touched everyone.

"The love for her family leaves us with so many memories."

A funeral service for Julie was held at St. Peter & St. Paul's church, Pickering on Tuesday, November 9.