THE family of a community champion have been left devastated after she died without recognition for her voluntary work.

Marion Montgomery, 76, was a founder member and trading secretary of the local branch of Save the Children Fund.

Her family said an application for an MBE was being prepared but will not be taken further as the award cannot be presented posthumously.

Daughter Lorna Montgomery said: "She gave vital contribution to the community and was a very busy woman. We have been told we can't take the application for the MBE further and it is a shame.

"She was the sort of person that would adopt and care for many individuals."

"She died very suddenly but the family feel better that she went quickly and didn't have to depend on others herself."

Mrs Montgomery moved to Mellor Brook, Blackburn, from Aberdeen in 1969 and was married to Ian Montgomery for 30 years when he died in 1980.

She helped organise blood donor sessions and meals on wheels through the Women's Royal Voluntary Service to whom she dedicated 30 years of her volunteering time. For the past 10 years she worked at the magistrates' court, in Blackburn.

Mrs Montgomery also volunteered her time at Revidge Fold Church and Samlesbury Hall, and was a past president and secretary for the Scottish Society.

She developed Macular Degeneration, a condition which can lead to blindness, two years ago but died of natural causes.

Mrs Montgomery leaves two daughters Lorna Montgomery and Lesley Wright and three grandchildren, Jenny, Fiona and Calum.

The funeral was taking place today with a service at Revidge Fold United Reformed church at 1pm and afterwards Pleasington crematorium. There will be a family gathering at Pleasington Golf Club.

The family have requested no flowers but donations may be sent for the Save the Children Fund c/o S.C.F., 447 Revidge Road, Blackburn, BB1 8DH.