Police investigate death of Cumbrian mum

Sharon Rose Grierson, 44, died at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle on Monday.

Following her death, the coroner asked police to investigate the circumstances.

Police say the investigation is in its "early stages" and that it would "not be appropriate" to comment further at this time.

Ms Grierson has four children - three sons and a daughter.

Her family said:“Sharon was a cherished mother whose children were her world - she called them her heartbeat.

“She worked tirelessly to ensure their happiness both in and out of the family home was complete and her pride in the kids was apparent in every way. Sharon was a happy and content mummy.

"Our mum was our best friend and, in the last few years, we had become as thick as thieves.

"She was always there with a smile, never failing to make each one of us laugh and know we were loved unconditionally. "She was loved by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her and had such a big heart that held a place for everyone close to her."

Emily, 18, Ms Grierson's daughter, said: "I love my mum more than the world and the stars and I’m so happy I’m the person I am and the person she wanted me to be.

"She’s left me with a million memories that I will cherish, and I’m happy that I had the time I did with my mum.

“There’s little bits of mum in all of us, from the things we say and the actions we take to the music we listen to and the books we read. She was my rock, and will continue to be for the rest of my life."

Ms Grierson's sister, Kristie Steele, said: "My sister was my best friend. We lived miles apart but spent most school holidays together and raised our children together.

“We spoke on the phone daily for up to three hours and people always asked how we found so much to talk about.

“Sharon had a history of ill health but tackled it head on. As with all things in life, she would find a positive thing to say instead of dwelling on the negative and she has been truly inspirational in her approach to life.

"Sharon was sister to Andrew and Daryl who are devastated at losing her.

"Sharon was the beloved daughter of William and Rose who have stayed by her bedside throughout this. She passed away with all of her children present and her loving parents by her side.

"Sharon will always inspire us to be the best that we can be and has highlighted how special our family is.

"Dignified, unique, happy, love and kindness come to mind but the reality is that even a million words would not be enough to describe this wonderful woman."

She leaves her sons Thomas, 26, Benjamin, 16, and Samuel, 15, daughter Emily, 18, sister Kristie and her brothers Andrew and Daryl.

Ms Grierson was originally from York.