A woman who spent 40 years campaigning for the Alderley Edge and Nether Alderley Edge bypass has had the road named after her.

Margaret Melrose, 83, became a councillor in 1967 with the aim of tackling congestion in the village.

The proud great-grandmother was instrumental in getting the  bypass built.

After years of campaigning, she was a star guest at the opening of the £52m road on November 19, 2010.

During the celebrations that followed at Festival Hall, it was proposed that the bypass be renamed Melrose Way in her honour.

And this week it was made official as Margaret unveiled the plaque which will be put up on the road. She was watched by Roger West, Cheshire East Mayor and Wesley Fitzgerald, leader of the council.

Margaret said: “I am pleased and honoured to have the bypass named after me.

“I never actually thought I would live to see it built.

“I would like to thank Cheshire East Council for this dedication and also all those who have worked so hard to make the construction of the bypass possible.

“It is very pleasing to see that this most attractive road is already relieving traffic congestion in Alderley Edge.”

Margaret Melrose has lived in Alderley Edge for 21 years. She was a councillor for 34 years and  twice chaired of Cheshire County Council – the first woman to hold the post in 1984.

Coun Fitzgerald said: “I am delighted that this proposal, first mooted during the grand opening of the new bypass, is now a reality.

“Margaret has remained incredibly modest, despite her unwavering efforts to bring this much needed bypass to Alderley Edge.

“This is a fitting honour to someone who has worked very hard of the people of Cheshire East for many years.”