Tributes to ‘heart and soul of the community’
Tributes have poured in for a Brierley Hill woman described as the ‘heart and soul’ of the community in Dudley Fields and Brockmoor.
Limes Avenue resident Margaret Arnold, who passed away recently, was chair of the Brockmoor Community Association on Pensnett Road.
She has been praised for taking the struggling centre and turning it into a successful venue by reaching out to those suffering loneliness and isolation.
Her daughter Tania Smith said of her mother: “The centre was mum’s life and she made so many friends there and cared for each and everyone of them.
“But she was also devoted to her family as a mum, nan and great nan. Dad, Matt (brother) and myself have been extremely touched by all the kindness and words of support from everyone.”
Local councillor John Martin joined the tributes saying she had given so much to the community: “I knew Margaret for years as I was at school with her daughter, Tania, and when I became a councillor for the area, I was delighted to work with her.
'Amazing'
“She and husband Ken along with others took over the running of the community centre when it was struggling.
“They gave it their all and turned it around to be the beating heart of the community, organising events for local people especially for older people who risk loneliness and isolation.”
Saying they brought both success and good spirits to the association, he added: “Their bingo nights were legendary and the centre would be packed on Friday but it wasn’t just the money that people could win that brought them along in their droves.
“They were also there because of Margaret’s warmth and humour and she and husband Ken were an amazing double act.
“So many people will miss her for all she has done.”
