TRIBUTES have been paid to disabled rights champion Christine Pickthall MBE, as she is laid to rest in Northwich.

Christine died suddenly at home in Weaverham on June 2, aged 66. Her funeral take place at Vale Royal Crematorium at 12.15pm today, Friday, with guests invited to wear bright colours.

She was a campaigner for disabled right, having used a wheelchair since injuring her neck in a gym accident in 1972.

Her work with Hartford-based Vale Royal Disability Services and the Cheshire Disabilities Federation has helped provide disabled people with easy access to information on their rights.

She was awarded an MBE for her work in 2004, presented to her by The Queen.

MP Mike Amesbury, who met Christine a number of times over the past year, led the tributes.

He said: "Having only met with Christine again recently I was terribly saddened to hear of her passing.

"She was a truly formidable woman and an inspirational character who championed the cause of disabled and vulnerable people in my constituency and beyond.

“She leaves a true legacy behind having directly improved the lives of countless people living with disabilities, and she will be sadly missed by everyone who knew her and the wider community.”

The Cheshire Centre for Independent Living posted on Facebook: "It was with real sadness that everyone at CCIL heard of the death of our founder Christine Pickthall.

"Christine’s zest for life and her funny – and accurate – anecdotes of 'there being more to life than basket weaving...' will stay with those who knew her forever.

"But it was her passion and dedication in the disability field, campaigning for the right to independence, that has inspired many and changed the lives of disabled people forever."