A MUCH-LOVED Cradley Heath Salvation Army stalwart was laid to rest this week .

Betty Walker, aged 83, joined the Salvation Army in 1955 and touched the lives of hundreds of local people through her work with the organisation.

She was given the honour of being led to her funeral by horse drawn hearse by the Army Flag.

Betty was well known among local community groups, churches and schools where she often visited with the ladies from the Home League singers or as a speaker.

She had worked tirelessly for the Salvation Army since joining in 1955, but is best remembered for her involvement as a leader in Salvation Army Boys Adventure Club.

Son-in-law Paul Ingham said: "Many local boys were undoubtedly influenced by her and will remember good memories of their time in the group.

"For many years she was a very well known face in the local pubs in the area where she used to sell the War Cry, with an enthusiasm and tenacity that made it difficult for people to no to her pleas."

Betty will also be remembered by hundreds of former pupils at Heathfield School where she was a dinner lady.

In 1993 she was appointed as Home League Secretary and organised a Ladies Group which is held every Monday at Cradley Heath Corps.

Mr Ingham said: "Her ladies were incredibly important to her, as were the men who attended when the group was extended. Like everything else in her life she was totally committed to it.

"The Home League meetings Betty organised were always great fun and there was always a degree of mystery about the activities. But that was Betty."

He added: "She was a wonderful Salvation Army soldier, mother, gran and great-gran and friend to many people.

"The family have been overwhelmed by the degree of support and affection that people have shown, and would like to take this opportunity of thanking everyone for their kindness and generosity to all who gave donations.

"A special thanks must also go to Marcus Adams, family friend and funeral director for his expertise and the excellent advice and support he gave to the family during a very difficult time."