A WOMAN who spent more than three decades working at Kendal Library has died after contracting coronavirus.

Rose Bowerbank, who was just 59, has been described by her sister as 'bright' and 'bubbly' and the 'life and soul' of an annual holiday she enjoyed with members of a Kendal church.

Mrs Bowerbank was born in west London but lived most of her life in Cumbria, attending St Thomas’ Primary School in Kendal and Cartmel Secondary School.

She then went on to Kendal College to train as a nursery nurse, but never made this her career.

A job at Kendal Library came up, resulting in a 35-year career as a library assistant.

Margaret Brennand paid tribute to her sister after she died of the virus in Cartmel Grange Nursing Home.

“She loved working with people,whether on the main desk, on the mobile library van, delivering books to housebound clients or to care homes,” she said.

“She became known as ‘poet in residence’ at the library as she composed many an ode to a colleague celebrating a key event.”

She described her sister as 'the bright bubbly woman with the lovely smile and blonde hair'.

For 15 years, Mrs Bowerbank went on an annual holiday with Stricklandgate Methodist Church.

“She often helped those less mobile and was described as the ‘life and soul of the coach’ by those who went with her,” said Margaret.

“In 2015 a cruel blow struck when Rose was diagnosed with dementia.

“Over time the bright, breezy, chatty woman became quiet and withdrawn, but still happy and content within herself.

“Never more so than with a book in one hand and chocolate cake bar in the other.”

In 2016 she moved to Grange to be close to her sister so she could help look after her.

She spent her final few weeks at Cartmel Grange Nursing Home, where she died of coronavirus.

Her son and immediate family said they had been devastated by the loss, but are touched by the messages and tributes they have received.

A private family funeral was held yesterday and a celebration of her life will take place at a later date. Those wishing to attend are asked to email mbtheclock@gmail.com.

The family have asked for no flowers, but donations to the Wainwright Animal Shelter where her cat now resides.