TRIBUTES have been paid to one of Hexham's most prominent businesswomen who has died aged 74.

Elizabeth Robson, who became the managing director of her family's firm Robson Builders, was awarded an OBE in 2008 for services to the construction industry.

Elizabeth, who was born in Corbridge, joined the Royal Air Force in 1969 for a couple of years before she worked various jobs in Leeds, including as a DJ.

She moved back to Hexham in 1977 to join Robson Builders.

Hexham Courant: Elizabeth Robson was managing director of Robson BuildersElizabeth Robson was managing director of Robson Builders (Image: Hexham Courant)

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Elizabeth joined the Federation of Master Builders, and eventually became the first female to hold the office of president of the association for the Northern Counties.

She was also a member of the Construction Industry Training Board.

She had a loving family and a life-long partner in Julie, who described Elizabeth as being "very liked by her many friends and was always happy to help and support when she could".

She also loved her pets - she had both dogs and cats throughout her lifetime.

Elizabeth was known for her support of many charities, both locally and nationally.

She passed away peacefully on December 31 in Leeds after a long illness.