A CRUSADING mum who campaigned tirelessly against loan sharks has lost her battle with cancer.

Carol Highton, aged 52, from Halton Brook, Runcorn set up a charity after her 22-year-old son, Brian committed suicide in 2005, when his £300 loan rocketed to £3,400 in 12 weeks.

More than 22,000 people sought help from The Brian Shields Trust since it was launched.

Carol’s efforts enabled law enforcers to secure many major convictions.

She travelled all over the country speaking at conferences and giving money management advice to children.

Carol, who died on Sunday, was honoured for her work receiving the MBE from the Queen.

She spent her final months promoting Halton Haven Hospice where she received palliative care.

Halton MP Derek Twigg said: “I worked with Carol over taking tougher sanctions against loan sharks.

“She was an absolutely determined campaigner and very committed to helping people who were being targeted.

“She had a major impact on bringing the matter to national attention.”

Jackie Kennedy, director of regulation and enforcement at the England Illegal Money Team, worked with Carol for many years as she helped to secure countless convictions against loan sharks.

She said:”When I met Carol I knew she was a very special person. She was inspirational.

“She had a tenacity about her. She wasn’t going to let anybody take advantage of people as somebody had of her son.”

She said her determination has made the streets safer.

She said: “She saved a lot of lives by the work she has done.

“She helped us secure convictions. She was a really positive ambassador. She gave people confidence to come forward and talk to her.”

She has nothing but praise for Carol’s commitment and dedication.

She added: “Carol was caring, concerned, honest, helpful and had empathy.

“Above all, she had a real professionalism about her. She had great integrity.

“She had a warmth and an engagement. She was just amazing.

“I feel as though I have lost a friend.”