THE FUNERAL service for one of the 'pillars' of Otley's community took place last week.

Honorary Citizen Beryl Bower died at Riverview Nursing Home, Ilkley, on Tuesday, March 27. A mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she was 86.

A Requiem Mass was held for Mrs Bower - whose late husband, Billy, was also an Honorary Citizen - at Our Lady and All Saints Catholic Church, Otley on Thursday, April 19.

She was then buried at Otley Cemetery.

Town Mayor Councillor Nigel Francis was among the dignitaries who attended the service.

He said: "Beryl and Billy were the first, and only, married couple to share the town’s most important award of Honorary Citizens.

“They were both pillars of our community and taught many people to swim in the outdoor pool.

"They were always there to help when needed and I understand that they worked hard on the Weston Estate, too - especially with the old green hut and the football club in days gone by.

"They were like two peas in a pod and I know that when Billy passed away Beryl seemed to greatly miss him.

"Now she has gone I am sure she will be back at his side and they will be together."