HOLLINS Grove Conservative Club has installed its first lady chairperson – and she is determined to shake up the the club’s “fuddy-duddy” image.

Linda Kitchen, 45, of Hollins Grove, who has battled leukaemia, said she would use her fighting spirit to relaunch the club to females and tell the town about its up-to-date facilities.

She said: “I’ve been associated with the club all of life, really, because of my father William Kitchen, who is now the president. When they first let ladies have full membership about seven years ago, me and my mum were the first people to sign up.

“I was very pleased to be given the role of chair and it shows the club is progressive.

“I want females to know that it’s not all about playing snooker. It’s about having somewhere to go where you will always see a friendly face and feel comfortable.”

Assistant secretary Vince Hinchen said: “Linda is an inspiration to everyone in the club. She’s always cheerful, a good word for everyone and it makes you realise you shouldn’t be moaning about mundane everyday things when you realise what Linda’s battled through.

“She is the first lady chair in the club’s history and she will make a great chair to propel the club forward.”