Family and friends gathered on Tuesday to say goodbye to a woman whose singing and dancing brought smiles to many faces.

Joyce Stromqvist, who lost a long battle against illness on November 2, aged 80, was a founder of the Malvern Ladybirds song and dance troupe.

The group formed in 1977 as an offshoot of the Townswomen's Guild and over 25 years entertained at clubs, hospices and other venues around the two counties.

"Joyce loved to sing, she had such a lovely voice," said husband, John. "She was always enthusiastic and worked hard to produce new shows every year, she worked out all the songs and dance movements."

The Ladybirds eventually grew to 10 members plus pianist, and performed around 30 shows a year, featuring songs and music from the 20s through to the 50s, as well as special shows, including the White Show and the Blue Moon show.

"People loved the Ladybirds, they were always so lively and enthusiastic, and the songs were bright and cheerful." said John.

"They were very much in demand, and were asked to do more and more shows."

Joyce's daughter Jane said: "She would cut up old evening dresses and create new costumes. When people saw the shows, they would often donate costumes to the group and we ended up with an attic full of them."

The group gave proceeds to local charities and was awarded the Community Action award in 2000.

Joyce led the Ladybirds until illness affected her voice and in the last few years they were led by Kath Platt, ending finally in 2002.

Jane said people always commented on her mother's voice.

"We once went to a folk event, and mum sang," she said. "The star of the show went up to mum afterwards to tell her what a lovely voice she had."

Jane now lives in Kent, where the family originates, and the couples' son John works in Coddington.

Joyce's funeral was on Tuesday at Worcester Crematorium.