The prime minister was among several prominent figures to pay tribute to the Conservative MP for Chesham and Amersham, Cheryl Gillan, who has died at the age of 68 after a long illness. The former secretary of state for Wales – the first woman to hold the role – had been a parliamentarian since 1992 and was made a dame in 2017. News of her death was confirmed by the Conservative party on Monday. “I’m very sad to hear the news of the death of Dame Cheryl Gillan,” said Boris Johnson. “She was a great servant to the people of Chesham and Amersham, to the Conservative party and to the country as secretary of state for Wales. “Always full of wise advice and good humour, she was much loved on all sides of the House of Commons and will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.” Amanda Milling, the co-chair of the Conservative party, said: “It was incredibly sad to hear that Dame Cheryl Gillan MP passed away at the weekend. Cheryl had been ill for some time, but battled her illness with great stoicism and grace. “Cheryl was a dedicated parliamentarian for many decades, serving in the cabinet and she made a huge contribution to public life and our party. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cheryl’s family and friends.” The home secretary, Priti Patel, said:“The saddest news about the passing of Dame Cheryl Gillan. “A remarkable parliamentarian and pioneer for many women in Westminster. A dear and compassionate friend and colleague who was much loved by us all. My sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.” Tracey Crouch, the Conservative MP for Chatham and Aylesford, tweeted:“I’m heartbroken to hear the desperately sad news that my colleague Cheryl Gillan has passed away. “She had been a great source of strength as we went through chemo together. When she told me she was dying I told her all the nice things I would say so she knew she was an incredibly inspirational woman in politics who fought for the things she believed in. “She was always kind and helpful to us newbies. She had oodles of wisdom from her years as an MP which she shared willingly. I shall miss her greatly.” The Labour MP and shadow minister for domestic violence and safeguarding, Jess Phillips, wrote:“Cheryl was lovely and kind and welcoming. Sending love to her family and friends. Autistic families had a real advocate in Cheryl and we will all work to make sure her work is continued.”