Glastonbury has lost a pivotal figure in community welfare, Gina Ty-Wharton, the founder of Love Glastonbury, who passed away last week after a prolonged battle with cancer.

"We have been asked to share the extremely sad news that the founder of Love Glastonbury, Gina Ty-Wharton, has sadly passed away. Gina has been valiantly fighting cancer for some years," the trustees said.

"Gina established the community fridge and pantry because she believed that no one in our community should have to go hungry. Her legacy in establishing Love Glastonbury means that her vision lives on, an inspiration to us all."

Gina's initiatives, particularly the community fridge and pantry, stemmed from her profound belief in supporting the underprivileged.

Her actions have significantly impacted many lives in Glastonbury, embedding a strong sense of community and support.

The community has turned to social media to pay tribute to Gina. One resident wrote, "Gina's work touched so many of us. Her kindness was a beacon in our community." Another shared, "Thank you, Gina, for your ceaseless dedication. Your spirit and legacy will live on in every life you've touched."

Gina requested that there be no funeral or wake in her honour. Instead, she wished for any floral tributes to be donated to the community fridge.

"Gina's compassion and kindness will have touched many of your lives, as it has ours. However, Gina did not want a funeral or a wake and asked that any donations of flowers go straight to the community fridge so that 'others can enjoy them'," the trustees added.