A SPECIAL tribute was made by Pat Dyson, chairman of Ilkley Players, at the funeral of Gwen Ascough, of Wrexham Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale, who died recently at the age of 75.

The service was held in the Salem Chapel, Burley-in-Wharfedale and the tribute said:

"Gwen Ascough, the stage props manager at Ilkley Playhouse, made a major contribution to amateur theatre in Ilkley for 55 years.

"She joined the Ilkley Players when they merged with the Burley Players in the late 1940s. As a young woman, she enthusiastically involved herself in the theatre in whatever role came to hand.

"Gwen began stage-managing productions for the Ilkley Players and, incredibly, acted as stage manager for a consecutive run of 100 productions.

"Over the years Gwen became the number one expert on the behind the scenes life at Ilkley Playhouse. She was an invaluable member of the company because she knew where everything backstage was or should be.

"Her knowledge of the storage cellars was encyclopaedic and many directors have reason to be grateful to her for finding much-needed props.

"Gwen's commitment extended beyond the confines of Ilkley. She toured with the company whenever they presented a play at the Minack Theatre in Cornwall.

"Her involvement with this Cornish Theatre Festival started in the 1970s and for many years she was in charge behind the scenes of Ilkley's Minack production.

"Besides her love for the theatre, Gwen was a great traveller who always seemed to have interesting holidays. Her travel stories will be remembered with amusement by many members of the Playhouse.

"Her characteristic enthusiasm and ability was also applied to her other interests. Gwen was a prizewinning gardener and cook.

"The way in which she worked for the Playhouse over the last 55 years was unequalled. At one time or another she decorated every room in the old Playhouse building, including the main auditorium.

"Gwen was trusted, respected and well loved by the Ilkley Players community, and she will be sorely missed.

"Everyone at the Playhouse extends their condolences to her brother, Dougie, and will remember Gwen with affection."