Sophie Lancaster’s mother Sylvia has passed away

The incredible Sylvia Lancaster – mother of murdered goth Sophie, and relentless campaigner against hate crime – has passed away, it has been announced.

In a statement from the team at The Sophie Lancaster Foundation, the charity Sylvia established in her daughter's name, it was confirmed that she died suddenly and unexpectedly in Blackburn hospital.

Read the full statement below:

"This is the hardest statement to write. It is with great shock and disbelief that we announce that Sylvia Lancaster has passed away. She died early this morning in Blackburn hospital. She had suffered from ill health for the last couple of years, but her death was sudden and unexpected. Sylvia had such a powerful life force; we cannot imagine a world without her in it.

"Following Sophie’s brutal murder, Sylvia put her energy into championing people from alternative subcultures and creating educational programmes to tackle prejudice and intolerance. She worked tirelessly to combat the inaccurate and lazy stereotyping that all too often leads to violent prejudice and promoted a culture of celebrating difference; something that leads to safer communities for us all.

"Sylvia was formidable. She challenged authority and fought for what she believed in. Her legacy is that Sophie will never be forgotten, and her daughter’s name will always represent her mission – to Stamp Out Prejudice, Hatred and Intolerance Everywhere.

"She will be sadly missed.

"There will be much to say over the course of the next few months. Initially all our thoughts are focused on supporting Adam and his family in the coming days and weeks. Hold those you love a little bit closer today.

"We are finishing for the last time using Sylvia’s sign off.

"Love and Light,

"The Sophie Lancaster Foundation Team"

RIP, Sylvia.

Read this: The legacy of Sophie Lancaster: "We should be embracing difference, not scared of it"