A LABOUR Party stalwart who dedicated 29 years of her life to Barrow Borough Council has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Edith May Garside, known as Edie, enjoyed her party at Risedale at Lonsdale and St George's Nursing Home on Albert Street in Barrow.

Mrs Garside, who was part of the central ward at Barrow Borough Council, joined in May 1979 before retiring aged 89.

The Labour Party offices on Hartington Street have been named Garside House to honour Edie and in 2010 the 100-year-old received the Freedom of the Borough.

Daughter Diane Fant said her mum is a fantastic character who is loved by many council members.

She said: “My mum had good upbringing because she is very clever. She did the audits for the Labour Party for decades when she worked for them. When my dad used to work at an insurance company she used to the accounts for him.

“She was fantastic at sums and a funny character.

“I am sure people will remember her for that.”

Diane paid tribute to her mum saying she loved to do various activities.

She said: “My mum used to love music and watched a lot of brass bands. She read the paper every single day to keep up with what was going on."

Councillor Dave Pidduck, who worked with Edie for several years, said: "She is a unique character who will never be replicated."

He recalls multiple funny stories and encounters with his dearest friend.

Councillor Pidduck said: “She was a fantastic councillor and a great friend to me, there will be nobody like Edie.”

Edith Wheeler was born in Nantwich on November 21, 1918.

She grew up with her mum, dad and two brothers called Bill and Alf.

She worked in a munitions factory during the Second World War in Nantwich.

Edith met Joe Garside on a holiday camp in Wales and the pair went on to get married and have daughter Diane.

Edie remained very independent until moving to Risedale at Lonsdale in September.