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Journalist who wrote for daily dies aged 34 after cancer battle

Ali schofieldA journalist who wrote for a regional daily’s magazine has died aged 34 after a cancer battle.

Tributes have been paid to Ali Schofield, pictured, who has contributed to the Yorkshire Post’s magazine as well as other regional and national publications.

Ali undertook a postgraduate diploma in print journalism from Leeds Trinity and All Saints College, where she also took National Council for the Training of Journalists qualifications, in 2006.

From 2008 to 2012 she worked for Leeds Guide, before turning freelance and working for titles including The Guardian, Marie Claire, The Dalesman, The People’s Friend, as well as the Post.

From May 2016 until 5 March this year, she also wrote a column for Big Issue North.

Sophie Haydock, also a freelance journalist and Big Issue North contributor, said: “Ali Schofield was an inspiring woman and a talented journalist. We met around eight years ago at Leeds Guide magazine. The friendship was instant. Her warmth, sharp humour and love of brightly patterned clothing set her apart.

“She was never afraid to share her opinions, which made her a brilliant columnist, and I loved reading her missives in Big Issue North, on topics ranging from saving the NHS from profit-driven shareholders to the #MeToo movement.

“She also never missed an opportunity to share her passion for animals and nature. She might be found helping migrating toads cross the road, protesting grouse shooting on Ilkley Moor or walking her rescue dog, Rabbit. She also admirably wrote about her own cancer.

“Ali was brilliantly intelligent, curious and deeply enjoyed life. It’s an immeasurable sadness to know I won’t be seeing her again or reading any more of her work.”

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