Tributes have been paid to a stalwart of Accrington Market who died suddenly after collapsing at home.

Jeanette Hope, who ran a lingerie stall for 25 years, died on June 28, at her home on Greenhill, Great Harwood, aged 74.

In a heartfelt family tribute Debbie Bell said Accrington Market was her mum’s ‘life.’

Debbie, 48, said: "Mum dying was a terrible shock to us, her friends and the people who knew her.

"She had worked at the market until 14 years ago when she was forced to retire because of her back.

"That upset her as she lost contact with people which was a shame. She could have worked for another five years she loved it that much.

"She loved that life and made many friends. It was her life," she added.

Jeanette, who was the companion of the late Jack, also leaves her son Grahame and sister Irene.

After growing up going to school in Oswaldtwistle Jeanette later worked as a pharmacy assistant at Thornberf in Clayton-le-Moors.

She then had a stint working at a factory before she setup a stall on her beloved Accrington Market where she retired from in 1960.

Jeanette enjoyed travelling with her dear companion Jack as well as undertaking work for local charities.

She also worked as a volunteer at Age Concern in Great Harwood and liked swimming, the sauna and flower arranging. Debbie added: "She was lovely, very kind and didn’t have a bad word to say about anyone. She was the best mum and didn't have a bad bone in her body.

"She must have been the world's number one Cliff Richard fan too. She went all round the country from the age of 16 watching him in concert. She loved him to death."

Her funeral was held on Wednesday, July 6 at Pleasington Crematorium.