Beloved grandmothers who fell from Whitby cliffs hours apart have been named

The identities of two women who tragically fell to their deaths from Whitby cliffs have been revealed.

Joan Blanchon, 69, and Susan Fawcett, 58, were discovered dead near the cliffs last month. They were part of a tragic series of four people who lost their lives after falling from the cliffs within five days.

North Yorkshire Police confirmed that Ms Blanchon was found deceased near the Pavillion on 31 July. Just two days later, on 2 August, Ms Fawcett was discovered lifeless at Sandsend by the main car park.

Their untimely deaths followed the heartbreaking incident where David Jeffcock, 80, and his wife Susan, 74, died on 30 July after plunging "hand-in-hand" from the cliffs.

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In two touching obituaries, the families of Joan and Susan paid homage to the "dearly loved" women. Roseberry Funeral Service posted Ms Blanchon's tribute which read: "Jo sadly passed away on 31 July, in her 69th year. Sadly missed by her daughter, grandchildren. A loving sister and special friend to so many.", reports Yorkshire Live.

Robert Harrison and Sons Funeral Directors posted Ms Fawcett's tribute which stated: "Susan was a dearly loved wife and much-loved by her children. She was also a dear granny and a cherished daughter."

Beneath the obituary, hundreds of friends and family members paid their respects to the "much loved" Ms Fawcett. Among them was Nicola Monk, who said: "Rest in peace Sue, still so hard to take in. Will miss our girlie spa breaks and the lovely home cooking treats you would always bring with you.

"You loved your baking and we loved enjoying demolishing it all. Your support when I came thru cancer and you came with sis and did Blenheim cancer walk with us, such a great day we had and we made the news in a magazine! Will miss you."

Russell Galey expressed: "RIP Sue and my condolences to the family. Worked with you for 22 years and always loved your laugh and smile."

North Yorkshire Police have stated that there is no connection between the individual deaths. Inquests have been opened into all four deaths.