Salford Royal Hospital volunteer Betty Lowe dies at 106

A woman who completed 40 years of voluntary work at a Greater Manchester hospital has died at the age of 106.

Betty Lowe had become a much-loved figure at the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) Cafe at Salford Royal Hospital.

The keen cake baker, who retired from her job at a launderette aged 65, was given a special badge to mark her contribution to the cafe last year.

Speaking at the time, she said: "I've nothing to do... so I came here. I look forward to doing it."

RVS chief executive David McCullough said: "We are very saddened to hear of the death of Betty.

'An inspiration'

"She was an inspiration to fellow volunteers and staff. Her death is a big loss to the charity, and our thoughts are with all of her family and friends at this sad time."

Paul Renshaw, Salford Royal's executive director of organisational development and corporate affairs, said: "Betty was an extremely well-loved and valued member of the Salford Royal volunteering community.

"Everyone was amazed and inspired by Betty - she gave so much back to Salford.

"She will be incredibly missed by those people she volunteered alongside and those members of staff who knew Betty from her shifts in the cafe.

"Our sincere condolences go to Betty's family and friends at this time, who will undoubtedly be extremely proud of Betty and all she achieved."