THE funeral has taken place of Ethel Ross, of Ipswich and formerly of Pickmere, who died on May 17.

She was born in Pickmere, one of five children of the late Polly and Herbert Bannister, having two brothers and two sisters.

She was brought up in Pickmere and attended Tabley School.

She married William Ross in 1935 at Budworth Church and they settled in Pickmere where they remained.

She was widowed in 1983.

During the war Ethel worked at the salt works and then as a family helper at Whalley's Farm.

She was an excellent gardener, cook and preserve maker.

She also sang in the Pickmere Methodist Chapel and was a member of the WI.

She leaves a daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Denis Barrow, grandchildren Alison, Alastair, Duncan and Stuart, and great grandchildren Zo, Jake, Freya, Ellie and Milly.

The service at Pickmere Methodist Church was conducted by the Rev Mike Dye and was followed by interment at Great Budworth churchyard.

In addition to family flowers, donations were received for Pickmere Methodist Chapel and St Elizabeth Hospice, Ipswich.

Arrangements by George Bell Funeral Service, Northwich.