A LIFELONG Keighley Salvation Army member has died at the age of 89.

Rita Longden was an active supporter of the church’s projects and followed both her father, Clifford, and grandfather into the Keighley corps.

Her cousin, Freda Tomlinson, of Riddlesden, said: “She loved the Salvation Army, it was a huge part of her life. She was still volunteering until recently.”

Rose Marie Longstaff, who works in the office at the High Street church and is also a member, said: “She was very meticulous and had great faith.”

Mrs Longden, who lived at Hanover Court, Utley, worked for about 25 years in the offices of Eastburn engineering firm Landis Lund and then at a Keighley insurance company.

Her funeral takes place at Oakworth Crematorium on Tuesday at 2.30pm.

It will be followed by a memorial service at Keighley Salvation Army at 3pm.