Woman killed by recycling lorry was 'shining light of love'

A grandmother who died after being hit by a recycling lorry has been described as a "bright shining light of love at the centre of our family".

Daphne Stallard, 89, who was the mother of Mary Stallard the Bishop of Llandaff, in Cardiff, died at the scene of the incident.

It happened on Monday morning on Brookes Street in Llandudno, Conwy county.

A man who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving has been released under investigation, North Wales Police said.

A statement issued by her children, Mary, Andrew and John Stallard, said: "Our mum, Daphne was a bright shining light of love at the centre of our family.

"She was a caring Mam-gu who was always full of concern and pride for her children and her grown-up grandchildren.

"A woman of faith who gave so much of her time to looking after others, she has always been an active volunteer at church."

Her family said she was a member of many community groups and spent much of her time visiting or writing to anyone she thought might appreciate support.

"She cared for people of all ages and especially enjoyed helping with small children at the church Sunday school, and visiting 'the elderly' who often included those younger than herself," the tribute added.

"She was incredibly hard-working, her children remember her juggling being a full-time mother, helping at church and teaching by correspondence-course late into the night when they were small.

"She always had a very strong work ethic and this attitude continued even into her retirement."

A Cambridge-educated scientist, Mrs Stallard taught in a number of high schools and was head of chemistry at a prestigious girls' school in Birmingham.

She was described as being devoted to husband, Reverend Charles Stallard, who died five years ago.

"They were both very fit and celebrated Daphne's 80th birthday by climbing Snowdon together," the tribute said.

"Daphne kept active in her later years and even recently was often out walking around town as well as attending Tai Chi classes.

"She would have celebrated her 90th birthday this month. Her sudden loss has come as such a shock to us all. It is a comfort to us that we believe that she is re-united now with her beloved Charles, and both are safe in God's care."