Student trans activist Lily Summers dies suddenly

A trans activist and prospective Labour councillor has died suddenly.

Lily Jayne Summers was a final year student at Swansea University, where she studied Politics, Philosophy, and Economics.

The political campaigner had recently been selected to run for council in Uplands, Swansea – thought to be one of the first openly trans people selected by Welsh Labour.

Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart said: “It is with great shock and sadness that we have learnt of the tragic and sudden death of Lily Jayne.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this terrible time for them.

“Lily was such a vibrant and enthusiastic person and it is so tragic that she has passed away at such a young age with such a bright future before her.”

Lily died in her home town of Stoke after being taken ill last Tuesday.

Friends and fellow activists have paid tribute to Lily on Twitter.

https://twitter.com/joshbrandwood/status/810862883961786368

https://twitter.com/MattTurner4L/status/810863759019429889

Lily Jayne Summers was one of the great voices for @UKLabour here on Twitter. They will be greatly missed.

— J.-P. Janson De Couët (@jpjanson) December 19, 2016

Such heartbreaking news. A rising star and a respected member across the party. RIP @MissLilySummers https://t.co/EPw0l68iIn— Liron Woodcock-Velleman (@vellstells) December 19, 2016

Genuinely shocked at the untimely death of @MissLilySummers. A brave campaigner for humanity whatever the hue. A tragedy #RIPMissLilySummers— Cosmopeleton 📯 (@Cosmopeleton) December 19, 2016

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