Denise was an amazing, wonderful woman from the North East of England, beloved wife of Tom and inspirational mother to Alex, Tammy and Andrew. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her and never forgotten. 

Tammy Smith, Denise's daughter, nominated her mum for Sky Andrew's Inspirational Mother Awards, in association with The Caron Keating Foundation.

"My mum is one in a million. She's always been a perfect loving and supportive mother to my brothers and I. She's the most positive person I know, who would go to the moon and back not just for family and friends, but for anyone in need. A retired police officer, mum spent 8 years in the child protection unit. In this time she drastically changed the lives of countless abused children and vulnerable people, and received a commendation for her work. After retiring, she didn't put her feet up, but completed a psychology degree, organised fundraising events for a mental health charity (even doing a skydive), became a carer for an autistic child and took in 2 foster children."

- Tammy Smith

On the 9th March 2013 Denise was an Inspirational Award winner.

http://www.inspirationawards.co.uk/

In life, Denise was a river of optimism and hope, bringing love and positivity to all those lucky enough to be around her. Those people have been inspired to continue in Denise's efforts at making the world a brighter and happier place. 

She did so herself with immense courage, determination and endless generosity. In Denise's spirit of giving, we ask for those who care to donate any of her families three chosen charities.  

We have requested donations to Hartlepool and District Hospice as they worked tirelessly to ensure Denise's final weeks were as comfortable as possible.

Denise's story has been picked up by local press. The article written by family friend, Joanna Morris, can be found via the following link: The Northern Echo.