A GREAT grandmother, who was believed to be the oldest living person to be born in Shambles, York, has died at the age of 98.

Iris Dykes, who was known to many as Mary, died on Sunday at her home, Somerset House in Wheldrake.

Born the daughter of butcher in September 1903, Mary grew up when the historic York street was a hive of activity, with its many butchers' shops staying open until 9pm or later.

She went to the former Haughton Ladies School, in the St Saviourgate area, and worked as a milliner for a short time before marrying.

Her late husband, Thomas, was also a butcher, and they were married at St Lawrence's Church in York.

The couple started their married life living above the old Crow's butcher's shop in Walmgate, and Thomas went on to work for Clabby's, just outside Walmgate Bar, then later for Fridlington's at Sutton-on-Forest.

Mary had two children, Susan, who lives in Dunnington, and her late son, Dick.

It was when Dick was a teenager and said he wanted to work on a farm that the family moved to Dunnington, where Mary lived for 50 years.

She was an active member of the Dunnington Mothers' Union for many years and was a hardworking wife and mother.

Susan said her mother had had a good life and had still enjoyed a sherry when she visited her every Saturday at Wheldrake.

Mary also leaves two grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Her funeral takes place at Dunnington Church on Friday (January 18th) at 1.30pm.

Updated: 09:30 Tuesday, January 15, 2002