“Jo died serving the community that she loved.

“My heart goes out to her husband Brendan and her two children – I cannot imagine the pain they must be suffering at this terrible time.

“But they will always treasure her love, kindness, sense of fun and amazing energy and be able to honour her deep commitment to social justice.

“She was a lovely woman with a real passion for life and for making the world a better place for everyone.

“We had such fun in the Parliamentary tug of war recently for MacMillan cancer support, where she showed all those qualities.

“Jo’s life will be an inspiration for many who share her vision of a better world. I was honoured to call her a true friend and comrade.”