THE heartbroken family of much loved grandmother Sue Gainey, who died after a cycle accident in Chippenham on Tuesday, have paid tribute to the woman who was kind and loving.

Her son Stephen, 39, said: “The family was her whole world. She always did everything for us. As long as we were happy she was ok.

“She was looking forward to Christmas and had already started to buy the presents. Her death came as a terrible shock to all of us but we are supporting each other.”

Cleaner Mrs Gainey lived with her husband Philip, daughter Nicola, 38, granddaughter Kacey, 16, and Stephen at Stonelea Close and other daughter Lucy, 32, lived nearby.

She had spent her whole life living in Chippenham and she was about to celebrate her 40th wedding anniversary. Her family said she liked bingo and dancing.

Mrs Gainey, who did not drive, was often seen on her distinctive bike and on Tuesday, like every morning, she was cycling between her home and daughter Lucy’s house when the accident happened in Hungerdown Lane at about 6.15am.

Police were called by the ambulance service to Hungerdown Lane, at the T junction with Ladyfield Road, shortly after Mrs Gainey cycle had been in a collision with a Vauxhall Mokka SUV.

Paramedics from the South Western ambulance service battled to save her but she died at the scene.

A police spokesman said: “It is believed she suffered a cardiac arrest following the collision and sadly died at the scene. Our thoughts are with Susan’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“A specially trained family liaison officer is supporting her family.”

Police closed the road for several hours after the accident.

News of her death spread quickly and a number of people took to Facebook to pay their own tribute to Mrs Gainey.

Among them was Nicki Edwards who wrote a message to the family saying: “ I first met your wonderful mum when I moved here 13 yrs ago when I walked to Frogwell school.

“Always waving out with a smile as she passed by on her bike. When my son was very poorly she took the time to ask how he was doing. Such a kind and caring person, my heart goes out to you all.” Theresa Giddings wrote: “Your mum she would always smile when I saw her on her bike.”