A former East Kent Mercury Shop manageress who loved her job will be remembered for her kindness.

Janet Freeman, 88, from Sandwich passed away six weeks after being diagnosed with leukaemia, on March 30.

Having joined the company which was then owned by T.F. Pain & Sons in 1968, she dedicated 23 years to working in the New Street and King Street stores.

Daughter Christine Stevenson said: "Everyone knew Janet and the few that didn't know her by name would fondly recall her as the 'lovely blonde haired lady in the East Kent Mercury Shop'.

"She absolutely loved her job and enjoyed talking and helping all the customers.

"She especially enjoyed working alongside Basil Kidd, George Gartshore and the advertising team.

"She would always get recognised when out and about."

Born in Ramsgate, Mrs Freeman was an only child who attended Sandwich Secondary School.

With the outbreak of the Second World War, she was evacuated to Betley where she was privileged to be placed with the Wedgwood family, manufacturers of fine china and porcelain.

When she returned to Sandwich, aged 14, she took up work as a book keeper at The International Store where she met her husband of 46 years, Charles.

They married in 1958 at the town's St Clement's Church and welcomed their first children, Stephen, the following year. Stephen sadly died in 2007.

When her second child Christine, born in 1963, was five years old, she returned to work, securing a role with T.F. Pain & Sons, selling cards, gift wrap and stationary.

During retirement, the devoted grandmother enjoyed time with her family and holidays.

She visited many parts of Scotland with good friends Barbara and Bo and was also a member of the Wednesday Club, enjoying social trips to the theatre and gardens.

Mrs Stevenson added: "She'll be remembered as a very kind and gentle person who had a deep love for her family."

She leaves daughter Christine, son in law Gary and grandchildren, Joseph and Amy.

Her family would like to have a memorial service for Mrs Freeman when able to do so.

In the mean time they are welcoming donations in her memory to Leukaemia UK. You can donate here.

Read more: All the latest news from Sandwich