Author Jilly Cooper dies at 88

Novelist Dame Jilly Cooper, best known for best-selling books including Rivals and Riders, has died at the age of 88.

Her children Felix and Emily said: “Mum was the shining light in all of our lives.

“Her love for all of her family and friends knew no bounds. Her unexpected death has come as a complete shock.

“We are so proud of everything she achieved in her life and can’t begin to imagine life without her infectious smile and laughter all around us.”

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