In memory of Jane
Jane, who died on 24 October, was one of those
people whose passing left a gap in the lives of
people well beyond her immediate circle.
It was most appropriate that the tree should be
planted on the site of one of Hirst Wood
Regeneration Group’s projects because Jane was
always a good friend of the group during her time
working at Shipley Area Office.
Even though she had worked the usual office
hours during the day, Jane could always be relied upon to turn up at evening meetings and
to offer enthusiastic advice on the best way to get things done. And her commitment didn’t
end there, for she would follow up and do whatever she could to help make things happen.
It always felt as though she was going the extra mile just for us but we knew that we
weren’t the only people benefiting from Jane’s energy and commitment.
As former Shipley Area Co-ordinator Chris Flecknoe said in her tribute published in the
Saltaire Sentinel: “Many Shipley folk will remember with gratitude the way in
which she found new ways of addressing local needs and empowering
residents through environmental projects, fun days, school holiday activities
and community arts.
Inspire
“Jane’s contribution to the tapestry of community life across the
neighbourhoods of Shipley will not be forgotten and will continue to inspire all
those of us who seek to help to build tolerant, peaceful and creative
communities.”
Jane was diagnosed with a rare cancer in January 2009 and as she admitted,
“my known world fell apart. I had a busy life as a working mum of two
teenagers, with a passion for fitness and the outdoors.”
She described the period following major surgery and treatment as being “rock
bottom” but, typical of Jane, she threw herself into supporting Cancer Support
Bradford, where she became a Trustee, and also into Zest Coaching, helping
others fulfil their potential.
Jane would have liked the idea of a tree growing in her memory and for the
very many people whose lives she touched, it will be a reminder of a woman,
who packed so much good into a life that was taken far too soon.
Jane Hughes, a friend of the community
Family and friends of Jane Hughes gathered in Hirst Wood Jubilee Blossom Orchard on Sunday 21
February, to plant a cherry tree in her memory.
