A KEIGHLEY-born woman who was heavily involved in the local Scouting movement has died.

Barbara Bradley, who was 82, died last Saturday (Sept 3) following a long battle with cancer.

She was born in Devonshire Street, Keighley and was part of Second Riddlesden Scouts from 1967 to 2013.

She started out as assistant Cub Scout leader, then became Cub Scout leader and assistant district commissioner for Scouts in Keighley.

Although Mrs Bradley had to retire on reaching 65, rule changes enabled her to reapply for a warrant enabling her to become group scout leader at 2nd Riddlesden. She also helped with the Beavers.

Mrs Bradley stepped down from an active, weekly role in 2013 due to her ill health but remained a district vice-president.

Earlier this year she was presented with a coveted, prestigious Scouting award – the Chief Scout's commendation for meritorious conduct.

Speaking after her award was announced she said: "It came as a total surprise but I was very moved. I have loved my Scouting so it somehow doesn't seem right getting an award for something that I have enjoyed so much.

"I couldn't have done it without my husband, Dennis. He has been supportive throughout."

Mrs Bradley was married to Dennis Bradley – the couple celebrated their wedding in Keighley's old Devonshire Street Congregational Church in 1955.

She worked as a dress maker, then later as a non-teaching assistant at Crossflatts First School.

The couple, who lived in Bingley, and marked their diamond wedding anniversary last year, had a son, David, and a daughter, Lesley.

They initially lived in Beechcliffe following their marriage, then in Riddlesden, before moving to Bingley in 1959.

Paying tribute to Mrs Bradley earlier this week, Keighley district scouting commissioner Jeanette Young said: "She was a lovely lady who was loved by everyone in the district Scouts.

"She had been involved with the Scouts for 50 years and I worked with her for nearly 40 years. She was full of fun and laughter.

"Barbara lived for Scouting and was totally committed and dedicated to it.

"She knew a great many people and built her life around the Scouting movement. She was an inspiration to all."

Mrs Young added that Mrs Bradley had struggled with cancer for the last three years of her life, but had done so with dignity and courage.

"She continued to be involved with Scouting right up until her illness," she said.

"She was even managing to stay involved from her home."