TRIBUTES have been paid to a “lovely lady” who touched many lives while helping to raise millions of pounds for charity.

Carole Bryer, 79, the oldest employee at Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire, has died.

She worked for the charity for 16 years, starting work as a volunteer but quickly moved to be a information and advice team member in 2003, specialising in benefits information.

While in this role, she helped hundreds of older people make ends meet and live a better life.

The staff and volunteers at Age UK expressed their sadness at her death and offered condolences to her friends and family.

Jane Longmore, marketing and business development manager, said: “She was simply a lovely lady.

“When you worked with her, she did touch your life so you felt better for being with her.

“She was incredibly family orientated and was interested in everyone.

“She took time to talk to us - not just about work but about our family lives. She was just a really genuine lady.”

Philip Talbot, chief executive officer of Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: “We were all very proud to work with Carole as she showed so much experience and quality of workmanship; helped so many older people; and by example, championed the value and worth of working in later life. We shall all miss her.”

Mrs Bryer, of Cornmeadow Lane, Claines, died on Wednesday, May 2.

Her funeral will take place on Friday, June 1 at 2.30pm at Worcester Crematorium in Tintern Avenue. Family flowers only. Donations to Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire welcome.

Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire is a independent charity highlighting issues facing older people.