TRIBUTES have been paid to a grandmother from Looe who tragically lost her life after a landslide caused her home to collapse in the early hours of Friday morning.
Susan Norman had returned to her home on Sandplace Road on Thursday evening after visiting her sister in Burton-on-Trent.
Just hours before the landslide she sent text messages to loved ones to inform them that she had arrived safely and said she was going to have an early night because she was tired from the journey.
David Holford, a close friend of the 68-year-old, said many people in the town had been deeply saddened by the news of her death.
"She found time for everyone who needed to talk. She had a quiet but friendly nature, and was popular with all who knew her. So many messages have been received from families whom she met over the years from different areas of the UK who have seen the tragic news on the TV or internet," Mr Holford said.
Mrs Norman moved to the town in 1991 with her husband, who died four years later.
She had three children, Helen, Rachael and Matthew, five grandchildren and one great grandchild.
She also fostered children in care for many years and was a member of various local clubs and organisations including the U3A, the Old Cornwall Society and the Looe Boat Owners' Association.
Mr Holford said: "As a younger woman she had fostered a number of children and it is known that in those days she would have led them like a scene from the Sound Of Music, tallest on the left, shortest on the right. She could tell many wonderful tales about her own children and those in her care."
"The incident, the news of what happened has been devastating to all locally, most especially to her family and friends.
"Any loss is so very sad but to lose someone so loved in such a heart-rending way is difficult for all to bear," he added.
Looe town councillor Brian Galipeau, who described Mrs Norman as a friend, said: "Sue was a joy to know.
"She had a wide circle of friends in Looe and we will miss her.
"She had a bright personality, and a delightful laugh that could raise anyone's spirits that I will always remember.
"I feel so very sorry for her family."
Cornwall councillor for West Looe and Lansallos Edwina Hannaford said: "My condolences go to Susan's family and friends.
"Susan was a lovely, friendly and well liked lady who was a much-valued volunteer."
"This is a tragedy and the town is in shock," she added.
