PEOPLE from all over Darwen gathered for the funeral of a well-known shopkeeper who died last week.

Norah Holmes, owner of Norah's off-licence on Gillibrand Street in the town, died last Thursday from pneumonia.

The 73-year-old had owned the shop for about 50 years and was an extremely popular member of the community.

She was so popular that after her death her customers organised a collection among residents in the Gillibrand Street-Percival Street area which raised £150. The money was used to buy a wreath with her name on which was transported all the way from Holland.

A large congregation including daughters Pam and Sue, their husbands Steve and Jack and grandchildren Paul, Andrew, Craig, Kate and Simon attended St Cuthbert's Church in Darwen for the funeral service yesterday.

A number of customers also attended the service.

Maureen Roberts, who was a customer at the shop said: "Norah was a very nice woman, she was very helpful to all her customers and was a very familiar member of the community."

Another customer, who did not wish to be named, said: "It's a great shame, Norah would have done anything for you and she was very welcoming."

Norah's shop remained closed yesterday and a picture of her was placed in the front window in tribute.