FORMER Craven District Council chairman Janet Gott was remembered with affection by friends and colleagues across the district this week.

Janet died last month at the age of 64, and a celebration of her life was held at the Black Horse, Skipton, on Tuesday.

More than 250 people gathered to hear tributes paid to a woman described as a friend and mother to all. Among them were Janet's husband, Peter, and her son, Roland.

Introducing the proceedings, Coun Joan Ibbotson said that when she joined Craven Council she gained not a colleague but a very dear friend.

"Family was important to Janet, and all the organisations and groups she helped were part of that family," she said.

One of Janet's main interests was young people, and she helped to found the YMCA in Skipton.

Its general secretary Julia Cuttriss-Steels said: "She was determined to stem the out-migration of youths from the Dales. The YMCA is a living memorial to Janet's determination, dedication and love."

Janet also chaired the Community Safety Partnership, and there was a tribute from Supt Andy Parker.

"CCTV in Skipton will be one of the many reminders of how much Janet contributed to this town and area. She will be missed but not forgotten."

Christine Broadhead, of Victim Support Craven, said she had greatly admired Janet's ability to speak up for what she believed in."She tried so hard to stop the erosion of services. She touched our lives in a special way - she was a unique and lovely person."

Magistrate Shirley Rycroft recalled Janet's days as a JP. "She had tremendous compassion and understanding. All the time she was with us, we never finished without a giggle. Janet was inherently cheerful."

And Sylvia Valentine, manager of Craven Citizens' Advice Bureau, said she hoped the district would find a fitting memorial to a very special lady.

Summing up, Rachel Mann, Craven Council's executive director, said Janet was a friend to everyone. "She was a woman of vision, aspiration and tremendous generosity. She made our lives richer."

Other tributes were paid by David Croll, of Aireville School, Jean McCrickard, of Water Street School, Valerie Nixon, of the RNLI, and Denise Burton, of Community Education.

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