MOTHER-of-two Jane Webster’s life was devoted to helping others.

The tribute comes from her son James for a community stalwart who was at the heart of life in Knutsford for more than half a century.

Jane lived in Manor Park South, Knutsford, since 1966, when the houses were first built, and died on March 21 at Macclesfield Hospital, aged 82.

James said his mother had been involved in the community since 1968, when she ran a playgroup at the old Crosstown School, before moving it to the Birkin Centre.

He said: “She did this more for her love of children than money, often taking children even when their parents could not pay. I don’t think she made much, if any, money from this.

“She was heavily involved in Guiding in Knutsford, running a Guide group in Crosstown School for many years, then being involved in running the district Guiding. She was still involved in Guiding up until her death.

“She had been a member of Knutsford Lions for many years, one of her main things being to arrange the Christmas lunch for Knutsford people who were alone on Christmas Day. She also looked after the Knutsford Community bus until her death.

“We also used to have a set of old wooden swing boats we used to take to local charity events to help raise money, and later her and my father had a small railway they used to take to charity events to give rides.”

Jane leaves her husband George (Fred), children James and Vicki, and three grandchildren, David, Jessimchi and Harryett, who James said she ‘adored’.

He said: “She recently spent a lot of time with the younger two, who will miss her immensely.

“My mother’s life was devoted to others - she was a very selfless person.

“Although she could hardly stand she would still go out in early December for the Lions street collection, but felt guilty that she had to sit down and not stand.

“She was always a person who would keep out of the limelight, but never stopped helping people right until the end.”

Cllr Peter Coan said: “Speaking as a longstanding friend and neighbour, I cried when I heard that Jane had passed away.

“She was one of the most remarkable women I have ever met, so involved in the good causes for Knutsford, over so many years.

“Jane has been and always will be regarded by many, and myself, as the epitome of what makes Knutsford great.

“We always hugged when we met, and would often have long, joyful chats about daily life.

“The twinkle in her eye as she spoke would always reveal her enthusiasm for adventure and enjoyment of life.

“Her calling and ability to care and look after so many children in Knutsford who are now adult is a testament to one of the kindest individuals I have ever had the privilege to know.

“My heart goes out to Fred, her husband and James, her son. She will forever be in my heart.”