THE chairman of Shepway District Council, Cllr Fred Wood-Brignall, spoke of his memories of the Queen Mother when members of the local authority met.

Cllr Wood-Brignall told more than 50 councillors at a meeting of Shepway's full council that he had fond memories and much lamented her passing.

He said: "I met her on a number of occasions while mayor of Lydd and she was a wonderful lady with a gift for putting everyone at their ease. On her 90th and 100th birthdays I attended parties for her in London. I have sent my condolences to Her Majesty the Queen."

Cllr Wood-Brignall attended the Queen Mother's funeral in his capacity as chairman of the Federation of Cinque Ports. The Queen Mother was the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports.

The councillor described the funeral as "a very moving, unforgettable experience".