The family of a university student from Huntingdon who died earlier this year have collected a degree in mathematics and physics on her behalf.

Emily Price, 22, began her studies at Aberystwyth University in 2014 and, following three years of study, had handed in her final dissertation back in May.

Emily had also stood for election onto Aberystwyth Town Council as a Liberal Democrat member but, despite successfully winning her seat, died only days after the election following a short illness.

Emily had submitted her dissertation a few days prior to the election and it was her intention to continue with her studies at masters level.

During her time as a student, she was a member of the physics society, the ultra frisbee team and worked as a student ambassador.

She also undertook outreach work, teaching physics and maths to children in the Aberystwyth area.

On July 20, Emily’s mother and father, John and Natasha, and her sister, Katie, attended a ceremony at the university in which a posthumous degree was awarded to Emily, a former St Peter’s Sixth Form student.

Speaking at the afternoon ceremony, Professor Simon Cox, head of the department of mathematics, said: “Staff and fellow students were shocked to hear about Emily’s tragic death. Emily contributed fully to the life of both the maths and physics departments, sharing her love for the subjects with visitors to the university and with school children.

“She had made Aberystwyth her home, and had recently been elected as a Liberal Democrat town councillor. With her quiet smile and enthusiasm, she will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by us all.”

Emily’s family is involved in discussions with the university about setting up a bursary in her memory.

Speaking earlier this year, Councillor Sarah Conboy, paid tribute to Emily.

On behalf of the Huntingdonshire Liberal Democrats, she said: “Emily’s time with her friends and family was cut cruelly short, but we hope that many will seek to inspire and motivate those around them in the way Emily would have done herself.

“The outpouring of affection for her through social media has been immense, and can only add to the prayers for those who will miss Emily most.”