TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of a much-loved Queensbury woman who played a key role in setting up the village's 1940s day.

Joan Milner, 59, died earlier this month and her funeral will be held tomorrow. 

She was an inaugural member of the Queensbury 1940s Day committee.

Fellow member Stuart Walker described her as a "lady with a great personality who would help anyone". 

She had a very active life supporting many community groups, in particular, the Bradford Playhouse where she became a director and also lent a hand to Queensbury Performing Arts as backstage crew.

Joan, who lived with her husband Geoff in Queensbury, also worked as a volunteer for the RSPCA for many years and undertook many fundraising activities.

Stuart said: "Joan was an inaugural member of the Queensbury Community 1940s Day committee. Joan was elected vice-chair at the first meeting I attended, and we got together to discuss the way forward in organising a 1940’s event for the following year.

"Joan was very enthusiastic and devoted a great deal of her time in organising stalls, vehicles, raffle prizes and selling tickets to the evening dance.

"Her assistance was invaluable as were her full list of contacts. Joan worked tirelessly on these contacts to ensure they attended the event to provide the necessary expertise to make the day a huge success. 

"Joan had a great sense of humour and we worked exceedingly well together."

He added: "Joan you are missed by all and your passing away is a sad loss for Queensbury."