TRIBUTES have been paid to a “passionate and loving” Southampton mum of five children who has died of cancer aged 33.

Hayley Davies Bateman, who was diagnosed with breast cancer, was described by friends as having “strength, courage, kindness and warmth”.

The single mum from Bitterne who passed away earlier this month made a dying wish for friends and family to take care of her five young children.

The former teaching assistant at St Monica Primary School died on April 16 after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer.

Her children, Ellie, 8, Willow and Noah, 5, Calla and Lukasz 3, are now being looked after by her brother Oliver and parents, Kim and Trish Davies Bateman.

A fundraising page with a target of £50,000 has now been to get the youngsters “on their feet in the short-term and contribute to their longer-term needs as they grow up.”

Close friend Naomi Dawson said Hayley asked her friends to set up the fund to raise money and help ease their worries.

Naomi, 41, added: “Knowing we would be doing this one small thing to help, gave her comfort in her last days.

“She was a fighter. She was passionate, loved her family and wanted the best future for her kids.

“We have committed to stand with her kids.

The charity worker added: “Please help and donate if you can. Even if you can afford only a small amount, it all adds up to a brighter, more secure future for Hayley’s family.”

Hayley’s brother, Oliver said: “We miss her every day and have been bowled over by how much affection she had. She had so much love to give her children.”

Hayley was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018. Despite having surgery, chemotherapy and radiation the disease spread to the rest of her body.

To donate to the fund visit www.gofundme.com/f/hayleys-cubs-fund.