THE GRANDDAUGHTER of the first ever member of Keighley Salvation Army has died aged 88.

Edna Pickles was the third generation of her family to be involved with the movement. She died in Airedale Hospital on January 6.

Mrs Pickles’ grandfather, Elijah Whitaker, was the first Keighley Salvation Army member, and she was introduced to the movement when she was only a few weeks old.

She became a dedicated Salvation Army member, occupying a variety of roles in her branch, including treasurer, Ladies Fellowship leader, Sunday School leader and choir leader.

Her friend, Mavis Clarkson, who knew Mrs Pickles through her own involvement with Keighley Salvation Army, said: “She worked very hard and was kind and fun.”

Mrs Pickles was born Edna Whitaker in Keighley in October 1926 and lived locally all her life. She was educated at Highfield and Ingrow schools before winning a scholarship to Keighley Girls Grammar School.

She worked as a secretary for firms including Lawkholme Lane-based Trico and Bolivar Stamping Company Ltd in West Lane.

She married Andrew Pickles in 1948, a furnace-man whom she had met while working at Trico. The couple lived in Aireworth Grove, Stockbridge.

Mrs Pickles went to live at Farish House in South Street after Mr Pickles died in November 2005.

Mrs Clarkson added: “She also played in the Salvation Army Band and was a very good flugelhorn player, though in her later years she played the tenor horn.”

Mrs Pickles’ funeral service takes place at 10am today in the Keighley Salvation Army Hall, prior to cremation at Oakworth.