TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular landlady who gave everyone in her village, children as well as adults, a treat every Christmas.

Dorothy Hauxwell, who has died aged 65, ran the Bridgewater Arms, at Winston, near Barnard Castle, for 27 years, until she retired six years ago.

She handed out a specially-prepared goodie bag to every local child each Christmas Day and served a free drink to every local customer.

Steve Nesbitt, who was brought up in Winston and is now a member of the parish council, said yesterday: "She was like a second mother to me and many other local children. She was always very kind to everyone."

Mrs Hauxwell and her husband, Hank, who died in 1994, also owned the Black Horse at Ingleton, and leased the Bridge Inn at Whorlton. But she concentrated on running the Bridgewater Arms.

Their son, Anthony, said: "She was a stickler for routine and wanted to keep the Bridgewater as a traditional pub."

Mrs Hauxwell was a valued supporter of the Winston playing field, which is used by local children.

At her funeral in Winston Parish Church at the weekend, a collection was taken in aid of the playing field, as her family said this would be in line with her wishes.

As well as her son, she leaves a daughter, Lynn Davies, and three grandchildren.