Touching tributes have been paid to a remarkable woman who has died at the age of 103-years-old.

Those who knew Jean Skelton say her death will leave a huge hole in the village of Seaton as she played such a big part in community life.

She was formerly an active member of the church, a popular player at the village's bowling club where she won countless trophies and a good friend to many.

Her daughter, Margaret Smart, said her mum – who was the oldest resident in Seaton – always thought of others and lived a full life.

"Everybody said she was very caring," said Mrs Smart. "She was so active and always on the go. She loved to be out and about and meeting people – she was very popular in the village.

"She loved playing bowls – she had a good eye – and when she got too old to play outdoors, she played indoors twice a week."

Members of Mrs Skelton's former bowling club will remember their friend at her funeral next Friday, as they form a guard of honour.

Born in Seaton, Mrs Skelton was heavily involved with the village church during her life.

For many years she was a member of the parochial church council which helped to build the hall at St Paul's.

She helped to run tea parties for old folk at Seaton Royal British Legion and start up a tea round at the old Workington hospital.

Speaking at her 100th birthday celebrations in 2014, Mrs Skelton said the secret to a long life was "having good friends and family around."

The Rev Ian Grainger, who will lead her funeral, praised Mrs Skelton's involvement with the church over the years.

"She was a wonderful lady," he said. "She was lovely and very supportive and caring – and always had a smile on her face."

Celia Tibble, Seaton councillor, said: "She was an absolutely inspirational lady. She still played an active part in village life and even came along to open our play area last year."

Mrs Skelton was a keen gardener and enjoyed going to the theatre – especially Keswick's Theatre by the Lake and to watch Workington Playgoers at the Theatre Royal.

"She loved to grow her vegetables – she was always growing beans," added Mrs Smart. "She was green-fingered and could make anything grow."

Mrs Skelton, who was married to the late Joseph, died at the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven on February 1.

She leaves behind daughter Margaret, son-in-law Stan, grandchildren Victoria and Daniel and great-grandchildren Lizzie and Harry.

Her funeral takes place at St Paul's Church in Seaton, at 9.45am on Friday, February 16.

Her loved ones have requested family flowers only with donations, if desired, for the upkeep of St Peter's Church in Camerton and Seaton Bowling Club c/o John Sandelands Funeral Directors.