The family of a 28-year-old woman who died of a rare illness today paid tribute to her bravery.

Gill Chapman faced the symptoms of the genetic Niemann-Pick disease with courage and dignity, according to close family members.

Her mother Brenda Chapman, of Southfield Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale, said: "Even towards the end, the sparkle in her eyes never ceased. That is how we want to remember her."

Gill was diagnosed with the rare disorder when she was just eight years old. But she refused to let the disease overwhelm her.

Mrs Chapman said: "She never complained and she never expected any special treatment. She was such a loving, caring person and always wanted to look after everyone else."

A missing enzyme in Gill's body made it difficult for her to process and dispose of cholesterol. As a result, the fatty substance stored itself in her cells, creating blockages around her body.

But it was not until Gill was 16 that the symptoms took hold.

Her father Philip Chapman said: "Gill had just finished her GCSEs and was starting a business course when she started to deteriorate.

"It wasn't long after that she decided to go and live at Spring Mount residential home because she knew it catered well for her needs.

"I can still remember her packing her bags. She wanted to go because she felt comfortable there."

Having spent ten years at the home in Heaton, Bradford, Gill built close relationships with those who helped care for her.

Owner of the home Janet Ball said: "Caring for Gill was a joy and a privilege. She was so determined and was committed to living each day to the full. She was so full of fun.

"I watched her become an elegant and serene young woman who craved her independence. We tried to give her all the opportunities to achieve that."

Gill died in her sleep at the home after saying goodbye to everyone she loved.

Mrs Chapman said: "We are pleased she had a peaceful end.

"Her condition had got so bad that she just couldn't swallow and only weighed three-and-a-half stone. She decided enough was enough.

"I watched her saying goodbye with her eyes to everyone she loved. She was in control until the end."

But despite the family's sadness, they are determined to celebrate Gill's life.

Mrs Chapman said: "Gill gave more love in her 28 years than any of us.

"We feel privileged to have had her and wouldn't have missed that for the world.

"We just want to remember her now for the bubbly, loving person she was."

Gill's family say they have been touched by the kind messages they have received from people since her death.

And in memory of Gill's involvement in the Burley-in-Wharfedale Guides, leaders will make a tribute at her funeral.

The service at St Mary's Church in Burley-in-Wharfedale, on Monday at 12.30pm, will be a colourful one.

Mrs Chapman said: "We don't want it to be sombre and we have chosen uplifting hymns to remember Gill's vibrant personality."

Instead of people buying flowers, the family has asked that they make donations to the Niemann-Pick disease group on (01273) 609535 or to Spring Mount residential home on (01274) 541239.