TRIBUTES have been paid to a Maldon Carnival stalwart who has died aged 66.

Jean Haylock, who had been involved in the event for more than 35 years, died after a short illness.

Her involvement started when her daughter Andrea was part of the Maldon band and majorettes.

She helped with chaperoning the carnival court and catering before later becoming secretary.

Daughter Andrea Haylock said: “She used to look after all the children of parents that were performing.

“She went on to support Maldon Carnival helping with the catering, chaperoning the carnival court, for many years she looked after more than 30 girls during their time in term.

“She was someone who would always help others and put herself out to be there for people.

“She was known as ‘Nanna Jean’ to many children who knew her and their parents.”

The flag at the Moot Hall was flown at half-mast on the day on the carnival in Jean’s honour.

Carnival president and former secretary Jeanette Stilts, said: “Jean worked with the carnival and carnival queens for a long time.

“She will be sorely missed by everyone at the carnival.

“She had been dedicated to the carnival along all the years I had known her.

“She also did lots of work behind the scenes for many, many years.”

Dave Williams, treasurer, added: “She took several posts over the years and used to be the court chaperone.

“When there was nobody to take on some of the roles at the carnival she took over as secretary three or four years ago.

“She was a God send not only to me but the rest of the committee over the last five years.

“Everything she did was spot on.

If you had any question you would go to Jean and if she didn’t have the answer she would get it for us.

“Over the last couple of years we wouldn’t have had the carnival if it hadn’t been for Jean.

“She will be sorely missed.”

Jean is survived by her husband of 43 years John and their children Andrea and Daniel.

She was also mother to the late Lynda and has seven grandchildren, Jack, Shannon, Ben, Joseph, Ruby, Scarlett and Mia, and a great granddaughter Lily.

She died on July 31 and her family took some time to compose their thoughts before preparing the tribute.

Her funeral will be held next Thursday, August 24, at Chelmsford crematorium at 3:30 pm.

Everybody is welcome and people are invited to wear blue in her memory.

Family flowers only are requested. There will be refreshments at the Ship & Anchor in Maldon after.

Donations can be made in Jean’s memory to Great Ormond Street Hospital c/o Co-op funeral services 13-15 Market Hill, Maldon.