Tributes have been paid to a North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) worker who died suddenly earlier this month. 

Sue Appleyard, from Seaton Carew, worked in the ambulance service for 22 years, and was affectionately known as 'Seaton Sue' by her friends - but passed away suddenly on Saturday (December 9). 

On Wednesday (December 20), her colleagues remembered her fondly and said goodbye to the ambulance service staff member who 'lit up any room'.

The Northern Echo: Sue Appleyard, from Seaton CarewSue Appleyard, from Seaton Carew (Image: NEAS)

Sue was a clinical care assistant, based out of Hartlepool South station, but had previously worked in our emergency operations centre and had been at NEAS for 22 years.

She leaves behind her husband Terry, daughters Louise and Lauren and step-children Joe and Rebecca.

Colleagues have described Sue as being "funny, kind, thoughtful and with an infectious smile that would light up a room and lift you on your lowest of days".

Outside of work, Sue enjoyed spending time with her family, going to concerts and trying out new hobbies and activities.

Within her role at NEAS, Sue did a lot for her colleagues and patients alike, showing compassion and care to those she was working with.

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She took pride in her job and would often be seen holding the hand of a patient and their loved ones in their darkest of hours – a memory that will be with them for many years.

A spokesperson for NEAS added: "Sue will be greatly missed and on behalf of everyone here at NEAS, we offer our sincere condolences to her family.

"This will deeply affect many people within our service and we are supporting our colleagues during this very sad time."