A former reporter who was part of a regional publisher’s central investigations unit has died aged 44.

Tributes have been paid to Deborah Punshon, who worked for both the Falkirk Herald and its former owner JPIMedia’s investigations team.

Deborah, pictured, had most recently been working as a communications manager with health charity charity Paths for All.

According to the Herald, She was diagnosed with a terminal illness earlier this year and died at St Andrew’s Hospice, in her hometown of Airdrie.

Herald editor Jill Buchanan said: “Deborah was a talented journalist and wonderful colleague, but more importantly she was a friend to so many: friendships which endured to the end.

“Everyone who knew Deborah is devastated at her untimely death.”

In an obituary for the paper, she added: “Born and bred in Airdrie, Deborah’s first job in journalism after graduation was at the Falkirk Herald’s sister paper, the Carluke and Lanark Gazette.

“However, her talents were quickly spotted and she was brought in to work on the company’s flagship title where she quickly established herself as an excellent journalist, covering a variety of fields.

“Her skills at getting people to open up about themselves and their experiences came from her quiet demeanour and empathetic nature, along with her trademark engaging smile.

“Deborah’s abilities also saw her seconded to be part of what was then JPIMedia’s investigations team, where journalists working with the company across the UK collaborated on in depth features.”

Deborah, who was also known as Deborah Fox, is survived by 13-year-old daughter Ailsa, parents Robert and Sadie Punshon, brother Drew and family.

Her funeral was held last month.