LONG-serving Bury Times employee Mrs Irene Lewis has died at the age of 60.

Mrs Lewis died at home on Friday morning (Feb 22) following a long battle with cancer.

She had worked on the front desk at the Bury Times for 18 years, before leaving the company after contracting the illness.

She had previously worked as a secretary at The Guardian in Manchester.

Mrs Lewis, who lived in Warton Close, Bury, was a member of Bury Parish Church and devoted time to working with local organisations and charities, including The Astral Players, a Bury-based choral group.

She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Mr John Lewis, and her son Robin (28).

A service took place at Bury Parish Church at on Wednesday (Feb 27) followed by committal at Overdale, Bolton.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Christies Against Cancer, care of Sillett's Funeral Service, Spring Lane, Radcliffe.