TRIBUTES have been paid to “a wonderful lady” who was the ex-licensee of the Astley Bridge Royal British Legion social club.

Brenda Townson, formerly Stephenson, nee Priestley died peacefully on April 13 at her home.

The 80-year-old has been described by family as a ‘loyal friend to many people’ and was renowned for her nights of entertainment at the British Legion.

The celebration will take place today at noon at Salvation Army, Bolton Citadel followed by a committal service at Overdale, West Chapel at 1pm.

Partner John Sawyer said: “Brenda was a very determined lady and it was her way or no way and she knew best.

“She had very high standards for herself and her family which also maybe came from her being a decent athlete and swimmer and was county class.

“When she came up with the idea and it had to be done immediately or even yesterday.”

Brenda was a dearly loved mum and nan and was affectionately know as a great ‘Nanna B’ and a ‘loyal friend to many’.

John said: “She had bounced back from major illnesses over the years and was given a matter of days to live but was still with us for another 12 months.

“She wanted to see her great grandson and he was born in October last year.”

John added she was loved at the British Legion and got many friends there.

“She got involved in 2008. It was our club but she was not in the best of health. The fact it is still going is testament to her.

“She did Star Nights and on the quiet nights on Fridays she put bums on seats with a supper and also on her birthday she got people coming along and making donations in buckets.

“She was a Christian and generous person and even took the coat off her back to give to someone who needed it.

“We ran a support group and fundraising for Bolton Hospice including the Summer Fair.

“She also did fundraising for MacMillan Cancer Support.

“People were loyal to Brenda and we are expecting the celebration to be well-attended.

“Brenda was a friend to everyone and nobody had a bad word to say about her.”

John added the family had many happy memories with Brenda including holidays to Florida.

All donations in Brenda’s memory for Salvation Army, Bolton Citadel (cheques payable to Salvation Army Bolton Citadel please). All enquiries to Co op Bolton Funeralcare, telephone 01204 307151.