Death of Leeds campaigner and school governor who was 'cornerstone' of her community

Tributes have been paid to a leading east Leeds community campaigner and school governor who has died after a short illness.

Grandmother-of-three Elizabeth Hayes, 74, of Whitkirk, was a co-founder of the Friends of Temple Newsam Park and was the group's chairperson for more than ten years until August.

She co-founded a community volunteer group and worked as a school governor at Temple Moor High School, Colton Primary School and Whitkirk Primary School.

Mrs Hayes also stood as Conservative Party candidate in local elections in Leeds for many years.

Last month she wrote to local residents to gain community support for a campaign to stop Leeds City Council’s proposed sale of Temple Newsam’s East Lodge.

She also served on Whitkirk Parochial Church Council and was instrumental in raising funds for the new Whitkirk Community Centre.

Her funeral will take place on Wednesday November 25 at St Mary’s Church, Whitkirk.

Mrs Hayes leaves two sons - Robert, 52, and Alexander, 48, and three grandchildren.

Robert Hayes said : "She was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother. To her friends she was enthusiastic and bubbly and always positive.