A GUTSY grandmother regained the will to live after taking charge of a community group on a Darwen council estate.

Adopted Darwener, Lillian Scott, of Whalley Crescent, Ellenshaw, was on the brink of suicide after her son tragically died seven years ago.

But the exiled Glasweigan widow found new purpose in life when she became chairman of the Ellenshaw Tenants' Association in 1994.

Lion-hearted Lillian said: "Ever since I moved onto the estate in 1962, the residents have been good to me. Everyone helped me get over my son's and my husband's death and I wanted to repay their kindness.

"The Association helped me take my mind off the tragedy and gave me a new mission in life."

The selfless 68-year-old has striven to improve the quality of life for the tenants of the estate's 216 households.

Under her guidance, the group's achievements have included new handrails for the disabled, security doors and intercom systems. A new children's playground is to be built this summer.

Lillian is currently organising a questionnaire for residents in conjunction with the Manchester Tenant Participation Advisory Service.

She explained: "We're asking residents how they would like to improve the estate. We want to achieve a better community spirit and let everyone know we're here to help."

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