TRIBUTES have been paid to an ‘inspirational’ mum of two who has lost her brave battle with cancer.

Race for Life champion Dee Bayliss was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 and underwent treatment, including a mastectomy.

But in 2010 she was told the cancer had spread to her bones, affecting her hips, lower back, right ribcage and neck.

She faced major surgery to insert a metal rod to strengthen her shattered bones.

Dee was a huge supporter of Race for Life and was last year invited to go up on stage in Poole to encourage people to return their sponsorship.

Dee was one of the first to enter the Poole event this year and was due on stage again.

But on Sunday she lost her fight with the disease. The 48-year-old lived in Poole with husband Chris and their children James, 24 and Sarah, 22.

Chris, who will now go up on stage on her place, said Dee had already written a speech.

Rachel White, the Race for Life event manager for Dorset, said: “Dee was such an amazing lady. Despite her illness she always tried to stay positive and she remained determined she would get to her beloved Race for Life. It’s so sad that she will not be there but I hope she will be an inspiration to others.”

Last month, Dee told the Echo: “Events like Race for Life are vital and if I can persuade more women to take part I will feel like I’ve done something worthwhile.”

Dee spent her life helping others. She used to work as a teaching assistant for children with special needs at Canford Heath First School and also carried out voluntary work at Beacon Centre Youth Club.

She had a strong faith which helped her face her cancer battle and attended Canford Heath Baptist and United Reformed churches.

Dee was also said to be over the moon when TV presenter Nick Knowles contacted her last year to congratulate her on taking part in Race for Life.

Dee’s funeral will take place on Thursday at Canford Heath Baptist Church, Culliford Crescent, Poole, at 1.30pm and then Poole Crematorium at 3pm. Family flowers only.

Are you Racing for Life?

Race for Life events will take place on Bournemouth seafront on Sunday, June 17, and Poole Park on Sunday, June 24.

To enter, visit raceforlife.org or call 0871 641 1111.

You can also visit our Race For Life page for links to all local races and to tell us why you are taking part.