JOURNAL readers have paid their respects to "local arts hero" Karen Harvey after her death.

Karen Harvey, who has been described as a "committed and hard-working" member of the Turnpike Community Theatre, passed away aged 56 with COVID.

She joined TCT in 2018 when she responded to a call for chorus members for the Christmas production of Sleeping Beauty.

She went on to win the director’s award that year for her contribution and commitment both on and off the stage; something that Karen was personally very proud of.

Karen continued to come to TCT the following year and joined the committee where she has been an active member and secretary until her passing with COVID.

Karen Harvey

Karen Harvey

Her colleagues at TCT said that, from day one, Karen was "one of the group" and that she "took to the stage like a duck to water" and had been taking singing lessons over recent months.

She has been described as having the amazing gift of being able to enter a room and talk to anyone and after half an hour they would think they had known her for years.

Karen leaves behind husband Jon, son Dean, 36, and two grandchildren, Madison and Honey.

Karen Harvey

Karen Harvey

Readers paid their respects after the Journal reported on the TCT's tribute to Karen earlier this week.

Sue Slack wrote: "Such a bubbly personality. She always made rehearsals and show times fun. She will be sadly missed both on and off stage. Taken too soon".

Meanwhile, Harriet Smith said: "My beautiful mother in law, we miss you so much fly high beautiful, we love you xx"

Andrea Samsopenshaw added: "Sending my respects and condolences to all her family and friends"

And Christine Taylor wrote: "Heartbreaking RIP Karen."

Karen Harvey

Karen Harvey