A “tireless community champion” and the founder of the Whitton branch of a disabled charity died shortly before Christmas.

Joyce Pearson, of Constance Road, Whiton, died on December 20 in hospital after suffering a stroke. She was 83.

Mrs Pearson founded the Whitton branch of PHAB with Paul Wenham, a charity which supports people with disabilities and children with learning disabilities, while working as the managing agent for a number of Whitton High Street shops.

She also served as the secretary of the Whitton Business Association, and helped to run a youth group in Whitton for many years.

Mr Wenham said: “She was an amazing character. Her commitment to the community was considerable. She gave extraordinary support to the Whitton community.”

John Coombs, a ward councillor for neighbouring Heathfield, described Mrs Pearson as “formidable” and “incredibly important to the community”.

Cllr Coombs said: “I knew her since about 2005. She was a great campaigner and supporter of the High Street. She was always trying to improve her area.

“People like Joyce are incredibly important for their areas. Things simply wouldn’t get done without them.

“When she thought something was the right thing to do, she just didn’t give up.”

In her will, Mrs Pearson left money and items to the Whitton PHAB branch, Mr Wenham said.

Her funeral was on Monday, January 9.

Mrs Pearson is survived by her son Stuart, and three grandchildren.