SOUTH Ribble's first ever Freeman of the Borough has died, aged 102.

Linda Craven (pictured), of Sherdley, Fowler Lane North, Farington Moss, died in Chorley and District Hospital on Saturday, December 30 after a fall at her home.

Her funeral takes place on Thursday, January 11, at St Paul's Church, in Croston Road, Farington, at 12.45pm.

Miss Craven became a Freeman of the Borough in 1987 in honour of her service to the council.

She was a South Ribble councillor for 13 years, from 1974 to 1987, and continued to attend council meetings and social gatherings long after her retirement.

And two years ago the council's mayor at the time, councillor Jim Owen, hosted a special lunch at the Civic Centre, in West Paddock, Leyland, in celebration of Linda's 100th birthday.

During her working life, Miss Craven was a treasurer for Lancashire County Council and was actively involved on the governing body of several schools and with the local Guides.

She also organised many activities for senior citizens and worked closely with the charity Help the Aged.

Miss Craven's friend and neighbour, Pat Marginson, said: "Her one wish was to die in her own home, but unfortunately, this was not to be.

"She was a very interesting person to speak to and she will be missed by many of the elderly people who have known her all her life.

"She was a very private lady and lived with her parents until they died and then stayed in the same house.

"We will miss having Linda around."

South Ribble mayor, councillor Graham Davies, said: "The council was very sad to hear of Miss Craven's death.

"She served with the authority from the early days and it was a great honour for her to be made Freeman of the Borough."

People wishing to make cash donations in memory of Miss Craven should send cheques to the Children's Society.