A features writer who worked at the same regional daily for 17 years has died aged 38.

Tributes have been paid to Jo-anne Davies, who fought a five-and-a-half year battle with cancer.

Jo, described as an “angel” who “had a smile for everyone”, held several different roles during her career at the Barrow-based North-West Evening Mail.

She passed away on Tuesday morning surrounded by those close to her, including husband Matt, the Evening Mail’s sports editor.

He told the paper: “As she said to me the other day, squeezing my hand and gleaming from ear to ear: ‘I’ve had a ball Matt’.

“We’ve been blown away by all the messages of support on Facebook, and via email and text, and by the knocks on the door from friends old and new, and the countless deliveries of cards, flowers and presents.

“Jo didn’t want you to feel sorry for her, but she was genuinely touched by all your kind messages. Right up to the end she kept a smile on her face and a positive attitude.

“Typical Jo. Selfless. That’s the way she lived her entire life. She made the world a brighter place and that’s all there is to say, really.

“We’re all going to miss her. It’s a very sad day for all of us, but just remember that ‘she had a ball’ and that we’ve all had a ball in her company too. Keep smiling.”

Jo with husband Matt in San Fransisco

Over her 17 years at the Evening Mail, Jo worked as a news reporter but also served as “Auntie Jo” on the paper’s 5-13 Club page and as community correspondent for the Newbarns area of Barrow.

She also played a big part in several community projects, including the establishment of the Walney Fun Run, attending many training sessions and completing the 5k course one year, even though she hated running.

Jonathan Lee, managing director of CN Media Group (Barrow), which publishes the Evening Mail, said: “Jo had a smile for everyone. She was one of the most kind, thoughtful people I know.

“She was an excellent journalist. Always professional, Jo had a passion for people, and for telling their amazing stories.

“It didn’t matter if it was a major breaking news story, or a smaller community issue, Jo always gave each and every story 100 per cent.

“She was an avid supporter of local charities and organisations, and she tirelessly promoted healthy lifestyle activities such as the Keswick to Barrow Walk, and the Walney Run.

“We have lost a valued colleague, a great friend and a wonderful person who enriched all our lives.

“Our thoughts are with her wonderful husband Matt and all family and friends.”

Matt, Joanne’s family and friends are planning to raise money for her chosen charities over the coming months and years – the FGH oncology unit, St Mary’s Hospice and the Eve Appeal.