Tributes have been paid to a popular former mayoress of Bollington Elsie Hibbert, who has died aged 77.

Elsie lived a full and interesting life which saw her come into close contact with the country’s nuclear arsenal and spend 20 minutes chatting to the Queen, swapping tips about parenthood.

But the mum of two and grandmother of three, of Albert Road, Bollington, will be best remembered locally for her tireless charity work and involvement in the Bollington community.

Paying tribute Elsie’s husband of 54-years Graham Hibbert, who is former Mayor of Bollington, said: “Elsie was a wonderful woman, a lovely lady, and I will miss her tremendously.”

Born in 1936 to William and Rachel Green, Elsie was raised in Poynton. She trained at secretarial college before taking up a position for aircraft manufacturer AVRO at Woodford. There she worked on the Blue Steel missile project in the 1950s, the British nuclear deterrent at the time, and was required to sign the Official Secrets Act.

In 1959, while at a dance in Alderley Edge, Elsie met Graham at they fell in love.

The couple married in 1962, but before starting their family, enjoyed a shared passion for motor-rallying.

With Graham as driver and Elsie as navigator the young thrill-seekers would race around Britain in their Mini Cooper in rallies which could last up to 48 hours.

Elsie put the brakes on her racing with the arrival of their children Jane and Peter. While raising the family she returned to work as a secretary for Macclesfield Hospital’s nursing college.

Elsie took a lot out of life but also gave a lot back, and her fundraising for East Cheshire Hospice was recognised with a long service award.

She was involved in many other community groups including Bollington Methodist Church, where she was a keen member of the music group.

During 2010-11 Elsie spent an enjoyable year as consort to Graham during his year as Mayor of Bollington.

She would often be seen out walking with her beloved Shih Tzu Penny.

Graham said: “Elsie lived life to the full. I have many fond memories, like the time she fell off the back of my Lambretta when we were courting, and the time she set fire to the house and, as a firefighter at the time, I was called to put it out.

“She had many great moments, but the time I took her to Balmoral with my work and she spent 20 minutes alone with the Queen sharing motherly tips, is probably my favourite.”

Elsie died on March 14 and her funeral took place in Bollington last Wednesday.