A Ramsey woman known for her ’energetic’ compassion towards the Manx community has died.

Rosemary Mazzone, who was recently awarded the ’Spirit of Ramsey’ shield for her charity and community work, passed away on May 1 after battling with breast cancer for 13 years.

The mother of six had fostered more than 40 children along with her husband, Toto, since 1992.

She was also heavily involved with the Northern Athletic Club and the Ramsey Bra Dash, which she attended with her family members.

Last month, Ramsey Commissioners presented Rosemary with the ’Spirit of Ramsey’ award at her home.

The award was created in 2015 to recognise an ’unsung hero’ who demonstrated great community spirit.

Chairman of the commissioners, Andy Cowie, said: ’We were distraught to hear of Rosemary’s passing.

’She was a shining example of a truly dedicated member of the community who spent her life helping others and applied her boundless energy and enthusiasm to so many worthy causes.

’The commission and the many local organisations which she has helped over the years, including Ramsey Grammar School, the Northern Athletics club and Breast Cancer Now Isle of Man will miss her friendly, enthusiastic and energetic support.

’Our thoughts are with Rosemary’s husband Toto and the rest of her family at this very sad time.

’Ramsey is a poorer place without her,’ he added.

In 2016, she won the ’community champion’ title in Isle of Man Newspapers’ Pride in Mann awards and was also awarded an British Empire Medal.

Angie Aire, chairman of Breast Cancer Now IOM, paid her tributes to Rosemary, who had helped organise the bra dash in Ramsey for 11 years.

She said: ’Our Bra Dashes had been running for a couple of years when Rosemary very kindly offered to organise, coordinate and drum up some "good old northern support" to dash the Dash in Ramsey.

’Rosemary along with a couple of other lovely ladies hung the banners, displayed the posters, handed out the flyers and collected generous donations.

’Despite her illness Rosemary never missed a dash in 11 years.

’Along with her family she raised thousands of pounds for breast cancer research and was a fantastic support to our charity.

’Rosemary remained positive at all times throughout her treatment over the years and it was clear that her family were the world to her.

’We will miss Rosemary as a lovely friend and a great support to Breast Cancer Now across the island.’

Rosemary’s funeral is taking place today (Wednesday) at St Paul’s Church in Ramsey. Donations can be sent in lieu of flowers to Breast Cancer Now IOM or the Institute of Cancer Research.