Welsh cyclist Becky North has paid an emotional tribute to her younger sister Bethan, who has died aged 31 after living with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and blindness since birth

Former world champion cyclist Becky North has announced the heartbreaking loss of her younger sister Bethan, who passed away at just 31 years old.

North, who is wed to Wales rugby icon George North, shared the gut-wrenching news in an emotional Instagram post, paying a heartfelt tribute to her cherished sister and the remarkable courage she had displayed throughout her life.

Bethan, who was born with fluid on the brain and lived with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and blindness, required round-the-clock care and had overcome countless serious health battles over the years, reports Wales Online.

Announcing her passing, Becky, who competed under her maiden name of James during her cycling career, wrote: "Our darling sister, Bethan.

"You fought so hard, and you defied the odds so many times. 31 beautiful years on this earth, leaving behind more love than words could ever explain."

"We are so proud of you and we will love you and miss you for the rest of our lives. Our hearts are broken, but we feel so lucky to have had you as our sister.

"Sleep peacefully, our beautiful angel. Until we meet again."

Becky has previously spoken movingly about her bond with Bethan and the profound impact her younger sister had on her perspective and outlook on life.

In a 2013 interview with The Independent, shortly after claiming double world champion status in track cycling, the Welsh athlete revealed how Bethan's medical challenges gave her a crucial reality check amid the demands of top-level competition.

"It brings everything into perspective," she said at the time.

"When I start getting upset about racing or if I'm worrying about things too much, my mum will always put things into perspective and it makes me think of my sister. It just makes you want to kick yourself."

Bethan had needed round-the-clock care from birth, with Becky's mum and dad David and Christine devoting much of their existence to her wellbeing.

In the same conversation, Becky disclosed how the family had weathered an extremely testing time after Bethan was hospitalised for 12 weeks the year before.

"Bethan was born with fluid on the brain and needs 24-hour care. My parents have been the most amazing people in the world," she said.

"When she's poorly, it's hard. It makes you appreciate everything you have so much more."

Becky also remembered the hours she devoted to supporting Bethan's care during her childhood, including feeding and washing her when her mum and dad required help.

Becky, hailing from Abergavenny, established herself as one of Britain's top track cyclists, claiming two world championships in 2013 before earning two silver medals at the Rio Olympics in 2016.

She subsequently married former Wales and British and Irish Lions icon North.