Thomas Cook rep dies of suspected heart attack
A Thomas Cook kids’ club rep has died of a suspected heart attack while working on the Greek island of Kos.
Ashleigh Deveney from Paisley, who was 23, had been at work in the morning and was carrying out her duties as normal in the hotel where she worked when she fell ill.
A statement released by her family said colleagues immediately took her to the doctor, where she received medical treatment straight away, but sadly passed away later that evening from a cardiac arrest.
Mum Maryann said: "I cannot begin to explain how deeply distressing this is for our family, or how we will even begin to come to terms with the loss of our beautiful daughter.
"Ashleigh was a bright, fun loving girl who was deeply loved by her family, her friends, her colleagues and the Thomas Cook customers that she came into contact with who praised her for her work.
"Ashleigh adored working with children, and loved her working life overseas where she made many, many friends who we know will always remember her.
"It gives us some comfort and makes us proud to read all the heartfelt messages we have received and for the support that we are receiving, and to know that Ashleigh was working hard in a job she loved and was so happy in her life at the time of her sudden death.
"We cannot thank everyone enough for their support and condolences, but would now ask for the time and privacy we need to grieve for our beloved daughter Ashleigh at this time."
Thomas Cook described Ashleigh as a "valued and popular member" of its overseas team. Director of overseas Jackie Stevenson said: "Our thoughts and sincere sympathies are with Ashleigh’s family, friends, and colleagues, and we continue to offer every support we possibly can at this truly difficult time. Ashleigh will be sorely missed by all of us."
Thomas Cook added that was unable to provide further information out of respect to the family.
Ashleigh’s funeral will take place in her home town at 10:00 on Tuesday, August 13 at the Co-op on Lady Lane and then Hawkhead cemetery. Her family said it was open to anyone who knew Ashleigh and would like to pay their respects.
Her friend, Amanda Quinn, has set up a fundraising site www.gofundme.com/ashleighdeveneyx to help the family with the "financial stress" of her death and so far 30 people have donated a total of £465.
By Linsey McNeill
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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