Tributes paid to British woman killed in French Alps skiing accident

Updated

Tributes have been paid to a caring mother and dedicated volunteer who died on a ski slope in the French Alps.

Anne Clayton, 54, was on holiday with her two sons at the popular resort of La Plagne when she reportedly came off the piste on a turn and hit a tree.

Son Stephen, 22, said his mother "loved life" and was "very popular" in her home town of Stockport, Greater Manchester, where she volunteered with a number of charities.

"She really looked after us and was a really caring person. She also helped out at various food banks around our local area. She was known for her voluntary work," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"Mum was very caring and would not do anything for herself unless it benefited other people. She was always ready to do a lot for others."

Manchester Street Angels, one of the groups Ms Clayton volunteered with, described her as a "very dear friend".

"Anne was an amazing lady and a true Angel. She will be sadly missed," the charity said.

Greater Manchester Police, who work alongside the charity, also paid tribute to Ms Clayton.

"Very sad news...she was a lovely lady & great Angel," the force posted on Twitter.

Ms Clayton and her sons arrived at the resort on Saturday and were making their way down a blue run when the incident happened.

Luc Nicolino, director of slope security at La Plagne, said she "lost control" and came off the ski run during a turn.

"She flew over a ravine and made a big jump before hitting a tree," he added.

Rescue workers, including French police and paramedics, were on the slope within minutes, he said. Ms Clayton was pronounced dead at the scene at around 11.20am on Monday.

An autopsy will be carried out to determine the cause of the accident, Mr Nicolino said.

A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesman said the family is receiving support.

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