Tribute to a 'wonderful' mother

The son of a popular local author has paid tribute to his “wonderful” mother.

Mrs. Mary Shreeve, a keen historian, writer and teacher, passed away at her home on Gypsy Lane on Wednesday, aged 101.

Mrs. Shreeve was a prominent figure in Rochdale, particularly the Castleton area, and was known to a number of clubs and societies, including Rochdale Hospital Management Committee in the 1960s.

Her two books, ‘Castleton in Times Passed’ and ‘Castleton Then and Now’, displayed her dedication to local history and were once on sale in local shops, and displayed in local libraries.

Her only son, Mr David Shreeve, explained how his mother was also a member of the old Castleton Knitting Circle, where she knitted socks and garments for troops during the war.

Mr. Shreeve told Rochdale Online News: “My mother was a very rounded individual who was very reliable.

“She was the kind of woman you would go to for advice.

“But also she was very switched on and had many interests. A lot of people know her and will remember her for the committees and groups she took part in.”

“She was also a member of the former Rochdale Hospital Management Committee in the 1960s, and worked with the United Nations Rochdale Branch when it was here”.

Castleton councillor Pat Flynn who knows the Shreeve family said: “We are very sad to hear of the news about Mrs Shreeve.

“She was a lovely lady who did a lot for the town and she will be missed by many”.

Reverend Ian Butterworth, from St Martins Church, Castleton, will be leading Mrs Shreeve’s funeral which is taking place tomorrow (Tuesday 12 May) at Rochdale Crematorium at 11.50am.