A woman who lost her brother-in-law to meningitis is warning people to be aware of the symptoms of the disease.

Julie Tucker, of Mill Way, Mill Hill, was devastated when Marcel Felimond died of meningitis five years ago on Boxing Day.

Mr Felimond began complaining of flu-like symptoms before dinner, and when he was rushed to hospital his family originally thought he had suffered a stroke.

It did not occur to anyone that the father of two young children – who was married to Ms Tucker’s sister Karen Felimond – would not be coming home.

However, Ms Tucker is determined to turn her bereavement into a positive experience by raising awareness as part of Meningitis Awareness Week.

The 45-year-old said: “Hearing the grief in my sister’s cries is a sound I never want to hear again.

“He was such a lovely guy, we were a very close family.

“You could not help but like him.”

Mrs Felimond and her two sons, Thomas, now ten and Alexander, eight recently immigrated to America for a fresh start as her husband’s death is still very raw for her.

Her disbelief and shock at Marcel’s sudden death has motivated Ms Tucker and her family to educate people about meningitis.

She said: “Knowing what I know now he could have been saved as the symptoms were so obvious.”

Early signs can include a stiff neck, a rash that does not disappear when a glass tumbler is pressed to it, vomiting and a headache.

It is important to seek medical help early as meningitis is a fast acting illness which is difficult to diagnose.

As one of the first North London ambassadors for the Meningitis Research Foundation, Ms Tucker gives talks and information to people across the area.

Ms Tucker regularly goes to Millway Medical Practice, making sure that they have posters and are well stocked with symptom cards.

She has also appeared on television speaking about her experiences with the disease.