Retired JP dies at home

MISSED . . . Thelma Jones

Thelma Jones, retired magistrate and dedicated charity fundraiser, has died suddenly at her Saddleworth home.

Mrs Jones (72), was a magistrate in the Ashton division for more than 20 years and also a teacher for 13 years, before taking over an Ashton dress shop.

A member and former secretary of Saddleworth WI, Mrs Jones also belonged to Saddleworth Music Society.

Her husband, Tom, kept a butcher’s shop and the couple have one daughter.

The Rev Duncan Rhodes, a friend of the family, said: “Thelma played a vital part fundraising for the Church of England Children’s Society and was a long-serving and valued member of the parish church’s choir.”

Lily Hopkinson, secretary for the Parochial Church Council, said: “Thelma was a great friend to everyone and will be sadly missed.”