FRIENDS and relatives have been paying tribute to Edith Leyland, believed to be the oldest member of the Liberal Democrat party, who died on her 104th birthday.
Miss Leyland displayed posters and entertained members of the party in her living room long after her 100th birthday.
She spent her last weeks at the High Hall residential home, in Bainbridge, passing away on January 9. Alyson Hill, operational manager at the home, described her as a strong and amazing lady, who was mentally very alert.
Miss Leyland had many friends in Bainbridge who will remember her for her work in the local shop, her independence and her kind nature. She took over the Leyland family store from her brother and worked there until her retirement in 1963.
Her nephew Peter Leyland and his wife Janet live in the village. Mr Leyland said: "She had been active in the village all her life, and even when she lost the use of her hands and arms, she was still mentally active and very well-read. Up until her last days, she was completing the crossword."
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