Usk cancer sufferer Ann Wilkinson, who campaigned via both the Senedd and 10 Downing Street to have the drug Avastin made available to patients in Wales, has died at the age of 76.

Ann’s refusal to accept the decision two years ago that she was to be denied the potentially life-prolonging drug struck a chord nationwide, triggering a debate about whether Wales should have a Cancer Drugs Fund like England.

A petition started by her friend Julie McGowan attracted more than 98,000 signatures - the biggest ever handed in at the Senedd.

The decision to deny Mrs Wilkinson receiving Avastin on the NHS had, by that time, been reversed but she carried on fighting for others.

Her friend believes it gave her 18 months of life that she probably wouldn’t otherwise have had - a chance, among other things, to spend precious time with her grandchildren.

Mrs Wilkinson, who was originally from Middlesbrough, moved to Usk with husband Allan in 1987.

She was made an honorary burgess by Usk town council last year.

The couple played a key role in founding Usk Panto Players, to help raise funds to revive the town’s Memorial Hall.

Mrs McGowan said that everything she remembered about Ann involved fun.

“She was caring, determined, courageous, and a great friend,” she said.

A funeral service will take place at St Mary’s Church in Usk on Tuesday September 27, at 11am. Those attending are asked to wear colourful clothes.