THE family of a former parish councillor and road campaigner say they were ‘very lucky’ to be her children and husband.

Dilys Gaskill, former chairman of Pant and Llanymynech Parish Council, passed away on February 14, and was fondly remembered as a councillor, teacher and staunch campaigner for a bypass for the A483.

Her husband Glyn and their three children ­– Sarah, Huw and David – added that Dilys’s ‘can-do attitude’ and warm welcome to outsiders will remain part of their lives forever.

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They said: “We were very fortunate to have had a memorable childhood in so many ways.

“Mum and dad were a strong team working together to help us be the best we can be – helping build life skills through our early years and beyond.

“Mum had such a can-do attitude, was positive and if you wanted something done – just ask Dilys.

“She was caring, loving, kind and compassionate.

“She was inclusive and welcoming to new members of the family – to Meg, Bridget and Vicki as a wonderful mother-in-law.

Border Counties Advertizer: Dilys gardening with sheep. Dilys gardening with sheep. (Image: Glyn Gaskell.)

“She adored her grandchildren always making time and having fun and the lessons she taught us will be with us for life and with others.”

A former teacher, Dilys was known to all around Pant and Llanymynech and especially the area’s MPs, formerly Owen Paterson and now Helen Morgan, over her desire to make the villages safe from traffic.

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But she also served the area in every way she could which her family says filled them with pride each day and will continue to do so.

They added: “As a community champion we could not be more proud of what she achieved for others – ably supported by Dad, who thrived in the role of Mayor Consort.

“Her outstanding and committed service to Pant WI, Llanymynech Girls Guides, Llanymynech and Pant Parish Council, Oswestry Council, Shropshire Council and Porthywaen Silver Band, to name but a few, enhanced many people and produced many positive outcomes. 

Border Counties Advertizer: Dilys in the chamber at Shropshire Council. Dilys in the chamber at Shropshire Council. (Image: Sarah Gaskill.)

“She had a long teaching career in and around the area.

“In retirement, she was very influential in local tourism as she managed our holiday cottages for 20 years or so, welcoming people to the area and promoting activities to her guests. 

She was very innovative in her works to raise awareness on the Llanymynech and Pant bypass with one example being asking people to post Christmas cards to MP reminding them of the issue.

“Her drive and initiative to preserve and celebrate Llanymynech Heritage Area has created open space for all to enjoy and marvel at – what a great legacy. 

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“We will miss her dearly yet we take comfort in knowing that a huge part of Mum lives in us all and we reflect with pride on her love and achievements.

“As a family we are truly grateful and touched by all of the messages we have received – thank you.”