GENEROUS Ilkley Gazette readers have responded overwhelmingly to our appeal to see a tireless charity fundraiser given the recognition she deserves.

Last week we asked readers to dig deep in their pockets to help send 87-year-old Lily Watson to a special ceremony honouring elderly volunteers at the House of Commons.

And, by first post Monday morning, we had reached our £150 target - meaning that Miss Watson, of Parish Ghyll Road, could travel to London on Tuesday for the event, which was organised by the United Nations' International Year of Volunteers.

But the donations didn't end there. As the Gazette went to press yesterday, the cheques were still flooding in with the amount raised having reached £250.

That, coupled with a £50 cheque from the Gazette and donations given directly to Miss Watson, made the grand total £435 - more than double the amount we had hoped to raise.

Many readers gave Miss Watson - who has raised more than £20,000 for charity over the years - glowing praise for her dedication and hard work.

One well-wisher said: "She is a delightful lady and without any doubt, well deserving of the honour being bestowed upon her in recognition of her years of charitable work."

Another added: "Lily deserves to be recognised for her long years of unselfish services for others. People like Lily deserve special recognition and I'm glad it's happening."

Before setting off for her trip to London, Miss Watson said she was 'overcome' by the response from readers.

"I'm getting so excited about it. As I always say 'people don't forget'. What you give in this life you get back a hundred-fold. I do appreciate it very much."

Yesterday she was travelling back from the capital with friend Eileen Mayson, who nominated her for the award.

The Gazette spoke to Ilkley MP Ann Cryer, who met Miss Watson at Westminster.

She said: "I think she enjoyed it very much - it went beautifully. She's a very unusual lady in that for her age she has stamina. She's brilliant - a smashing woman and I'm very impressed by her."