It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Abbie Dougherty on the morning of June 12th 2016. She will not be forgotten.

Abbie was Head of Babies at our nursery in Weston for the past two years, earning her way through the ranks, after joining initially as an apprentice. Through hard work, a kind heart and an approach that was admired by all, she was a figurehead for her team, encouraging them to be the best they could be.

A popular character with the babies, her bubbly nature and positive outlook kept them learning in fun and exciting ways, allowing them to revel in their time at nursery, creating an atmosphere that inspired learning and enthusiasm.

Outside of nursery, she was a keen rugby enthusiast, supporting her local team in Chew Valley and spending time as a volunteer paramedic, once again showing her caring and supportive nature.

Abbie's fight with cancer was a long one, as so many of them always are and she returned to work happily, having been given the all-clear at the end of 2015. She rejoined her team with the same passion and happy spirit that she had always shown, stepping back in as if she had never been away. Unfortunately, it was less than a year after her return that she was told that her cancer had returned and Abbie had to step away from her babies for the last time.

During her final weeks, Abbie chose to fundraise for the ward that had cared for her so admirably during her treatment. She wanted the money that was raised to be donated to the Teenage Cancer Trust, so that they could continue to help other young girls in her situation and that her fighting spirit would live on through them.

Abbie was loved by many and admired by all at Snapdragons Weston and her absence will be felt at the deepest parts of our hearts. Too young and too kind to leave us all so soon, she will forever be remembered from our youngest babies to our oldest employees.

Sleep tight Abbie. You'll never be gone from our minds.