THE family of a popular young mother who died suddenly say a massive light in their lives has gone out.

Toni Harris, 21, of Snedden Grove, was training to become a physiotherapist at Somerset College, but died in the early hours of Wednesday morning last week.

She leaves behind five-year-old son Thomas, eight-month-old daughter Millie, mum Kelly, dad Steven and brother Sebastian.

Kelly told the County Gazette she was speaking to her daughter just hours before she was called to Musgrove Park Hospital.

She said: “I knew it was bad as soon as they put me in the relative room and I just remember screaming for my friend who works at the hospital when they told me.

“I remember holding Toni’s hand and thinking she might wake up, but she was already gone.”

Toni’s death has been reported to West Somerset Coroner Michael Rose, who said they are waiting for final post mortem examination reports before determining the cause.

Keen rugby player Toni represented the Taunton Fillies, and Kelly described her daughter as a wonderful, bubbly, caring and very bright girl.

She said: “I’m proud she touched so many people’s lives by helping them and being there when they needed her.

“We’re not accepting it – we’re in a state of unreality.

“I just want a reason why she died – 21 is no age at all to pass away.”

Toni studied sport management at Richard Huish College in Taunton before continuing her education at Somerset College, where she studied sport around three years ago.

Somerset College said she was “fondly remembered by the staff” who were saddened by her loss.

Flowers, cards and balloons were placed outside Toni’s home this week and hundreds of heartfelt messages were posted on Facebook as friends paid tribute to her.

One friend said: “Absolutely gutted, a young friend and brill mother taken from us at such a young age.”

Another posted: “I will never forget the way you always made me smile – I’m gonna miss you.

“You were taken too early. May you watch over your little ones through their lives’ endeavours and paths they choose.

“My heart goes out to those left behind.”