A WOMAN described as a linchpin of the amateur dramatists of Cleobury Players for many years has died, aged 74.

Mavis Cartwright handled publicity for the group, using her business career experience of advertising.

Her versatility enabled her to assume acting or producing roles and the formation and development of the group's young players was down to her and her hard work, said Jim Reynolds, editor of the Cleobury Clarion.

He added: "Cleobury Mortimer is a poorer place with the sad passing of Mavis Cartwright. Few people have touched the lives of so many others in this community and few gave so freely of their time."

Mrs Cartwright was involved with Cleobury's Writing Circle, as well as being the longest serving member of the Cleobury Mortimer Chamber of Trade committee, for which she was treasurer for many years.

She had been in poor health for some months and was admitted to hospital for surgery but died there, on May 22, leaving her husband, Tom.

A private funeral was held last Thursday. A memorial service is being arranged, with the date to be announced.