Friends and neighbours of the outspoken former Labour MP, Joan Maynard, today spoke of their plans to build a hospice in her memory.

Miss Maynard, former MP for Sheffield Brightside, died at her home in Sowerby, near Thirsk, after losing a long battle against cancer.

She was 76.

A funeral service will take place at Sowerby Church on Friday at 2pm, followed by a private burial at Thornton-le-Street. Veteran Labour left-winger Tony Benn will be among the MPs attending, and he is expected to address the service.

York Labour MP Hugh Bayley today led the tributes to Miss Maynard, nicknamed "Stalin's Granny" in respect of her left-wing political views.

Mr Bayley said: "Joan will remain an unforgettable part of the North Yorkshire Labour party and the Agricultural Workers' Union, which she was involved in."

He added: "We now have 101 women Labour MPs, but didn't when Joan went into the House. She was a trailblazer for women's rights."

"I have many good memories of meetings she attended in York. I am shocked and saddened at her death."

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