Tributes pour in for St Helens woman who died suddenly in Turkey

Despite having no prior health issues, Kate Thornton died of a suspected cardiac arrest on Tuesday, June 28, while on holiday in Turkey.

Known around St Helens for her work with men's mental health charity HIMvisible, Kate is said to have spent her life constantly trying to better herself and others.

The digital marketing manager was in Turkey celebrating a "life changing" new role, and leaves behind a husband, two stepsons, her parents and a beloved dog.

READ > Heartbreak as much-loved woman dies on holiday celebrating her dream job

Kate leaves behind a husband, two step sons, her parents and a beloved dog

Since the devastating news, tributes have poured in for the much-loved 42-year-old.

In an online post, her husband Steve Thornton wrote: "Kate was not only my absolute world but was also the greatest of mum’s to both Cole and Kade, not forgetting her third pride and joy, [her dog] Hogan.

"Kate’s absence in this world will be felt by so many amazing people associated in her life. Her shining light and huge character brought warmth, joy and laughter to so many of us.

"I’m sure family, friends and associates will all agree that this leaves a huge hole in our hearts, but we will always have special memories of such a beautiful, loving soul that Kate was."

Steve and Kate Thornton

Another member of HIMvisible, Paul Hankin wrote: "This woman was the absolute salt of the Earth.

"[She would] do anything for anyone who had the privilege of crossing her path, honestly a wonderful woman!

"[She had] a smile that would light up a dark room [and] did a lot for me and even more for [my daughter] Faye - we will miss you very very much."

Commenting on Steve's Facebook post, Louise Rourke said: "So so devastating, I worked with Kate at Moorepay, but only recently discovered that we had mutual friends in St Helens.

"Kate genuinely was the nicest, kindest, funniest person I have ever had the pleasure to know."

Similarly, Heather Moore wrote: "Truly devastating news. Kate had so many friends here at Moorepay. She was always full of energy and such a beautiful person inside and out. She will be missed by everyone."

Phil Brown said: "I can honestly say that this lady was the best thing to ever come into my friend's life by far.

"Kate was so genuine, loyal, and had a huge beautiful heart of gold and [her and Steve] were definitely soul mates. She was such a sweetheart and will leave a massive void in everyone's lives."

Kate with Steve and his sons Cole and Kade

Rebecca Ashworth said: "She really was a one-off, amazing lady. Missing her so much."

Kelly Anne said: "I'm so sad to hear this, I truly am. I hung around with Kate for some of my teenage years. We had some good times. Although I haven't seen Kate for many years, I could see on her Facebook she was truly happy.

Sara Paul Max Wilson wrote: "Words cannot describe the loss the family and we all are feeling.

"Kate was an amazing person who brought joy to everyone she knew. I know I will never be able to replace the friendship we had, and I can only cherish the memories we made."

Tributes have poured in for the 42-year-old who was loved by many

Jessica Chapman said: "The most devastating news! Kate was the ray of sunshine in the office and always had everyone smiling and feeling positive! She is going to be missed so much."

Janine Lennon commented: " Kate was one in a million - a friend, a confidante, and a source of many memories and giggles."

Lynda Arrowsmith wrote: "Kate was such a beautiful lady, so full of life and friend to all, I cannot believe she really has gone."

Maz Berry said: "So very blessed to have a bond with [Steve and Kate], you are and will always be two of the most beautiful souls we have ever met.

"Rest well Kate and know that you will always be loved by many."

Jo Eva said: "[Steve] and Kate are very special who have helped so many people.

"Kate has touched many others' lives with her kindness and compassion and she will be missed by everyone who knows her."

Steve and Kate were on holiday celebrating her "dream job"

Laura-Jane Wall said: "I worked with Kate at Moorepay and did her make up for [her] wedding - Kate was just the most amazingly lovely person with a genuine heart of gold.

Mick Otter said: "Kate was a genuinely lovely lady. The kind that once met will never be forgotten."

Hoping the family can take comfort in the tributes, Anita Willetts added: "Kate truly was a ray of sunshine in our Moorepay office and will be massively missed - beautiful inside and out."

To help Steve and the family pay for the repatriation costs, with Kate's body having to be flown back to the UK, you can donate to a fundraiser at this link.