LYNN Jenkinson, a popular figure in the Kendal area and a stalwart of the South Lakes University of the Third Age, has died after a short illness.

Born in Great Clifton, Cumberland, Lynn was the daughter of a coal miner.

Cockermouth Grammar School gave her the qualifications and ambition to go to Birmingham University followed by teacher training.

Lynn’s first post was at Ulverston Grammar School where she taught geography. Later, she lectured at a teacher training college in the Midlands before taking on the role of department head at a new community school in Liverpool.

This new venture involved coaxing mums and dads, who could not write, to come and sit in with the pupils to learn basic reading and writing skills Many went on to qualify for further education and university status.

Lynn’s reputation, for hard work and dedication, became known to officials at the city’s education office and she was offered, and accepted, the role of assistant director of education for Liverpool.

Lynn also served as a magistrate on the Chester Bench for a number of years.

She returned to the Lake District on her retirement and spent 13 very happy years in the area.

A celebration of Lynn’s life will be held on February 24 at The Village Hall, Staveley, near Kendal at 2pm. All are welcome.