A 102-year-old is being remembered fondly as an “inspiring woman”.

Joan Charlton, of Catton, died in Lowgate Care Home in Hexham on February 5.

The former headmistress was born in County Durham and attended Tanfield School in Stanley.

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She later went on to read English at Cambridge University before becoming a teacher and head of English and later headmistress in schools across the North and in Bristol.

Joan moved to Catton when she retired and was involved in community life for over 40 years, including roles with Talking Newspaper for people with impaired vision and First Responders. She was also a WI member and campaigned at Royal Albert Hall in London about pollution.

The popular woman was also a loyal Methodist who enjoyed classical music and made and embroidered her own clothes.

“She was an amazing lady, she’ll be sadly missed”, said friend of over 20 years Ann Potter.

“She was so remarkable and inspired people – she’s touched so many people over her lifetime.

“She impressed students so much and made a resounding impression on many people who kept in touch. She was a prolific letter writer.”

Joan, who lived independently until the last few months of her life, also coped with a house fire aged 98, Ann said.

“She was very warm and welcoming, and fascinating to talk to because she could talk about anything.

“She was very well read – she read the Guardian every day but also had a library of over 1,200 books. She had a brain that just absorbed everything and didn’t ever forget it.

“She was also very kind to people and gave a lot to charity and campaigned for things.

“She was popular and very well respected because of her persona.  I would call her an inspiring woman.”

A service to celebrate Joan’s long life will be held at Catton Methodist Church on March 10 followed by a private interment.

A retiring collection in memory of Joan will be taken for Medecins Sans Frontieres and Catton Methodist Church.