An Isle of Wight woman who passed away last year has been praised for her "incredible" effort in helping to save not one, but two historic buildings on the Island.
Those who knew Rose Ashton say she is a "shining example" of what can be achieved by a single person.
She was the driving force behind the successful fundraising campaign to preserve Whitwell Parish Church, St Mary and St Rhadegund - but sadly died before seeing the repairs carried out.
Whitwell Parish Church undergoing renovation works.
Works have since been completed - and largely thanks to her efforts - the site is no longer on the 'at risk' register.
In the years prior, Mrs Ashton also led the project to save the nearby Niton Church. Marion Brinton, from Historic England, paid tribute to her "true commitment":
"She was a special lady. She worked really hard with great dedication to raise funds for the church and actually before that she raised fund for Niton Church. She used her knowledge and expertise to then go forward with Whitwell Church and raise funds there.
"She greatly impressed my colleagues with her true commitment and she's a shining example of what can be achieved by a single committed person. Quite possibly, without her, Whitwell Church wouldn't have been coming off the register today. What a great legacy to have saved not one, but two Island churches."
Whitwell Parish Church is formed from two separate medieval chapels built side by side and was largely re-built in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Rose Ashton.
The Grade II* listed building was at risk mainly due to stone decay and issues with water damage.
These have since been addressed with help from Mrs Ashton, and a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant.
Whitwell Parish Church.
Marion Brinton added:
"Her family and friends should be very proud. The church is there for everyone to visit. It's right there in the middle of the village and we encourage everyone to go."
A familiar face to locals, Mrs Ashton was also instrumental in the installation of a toilet at Whitwell Church - the first time it has ever had one in over 900 years.
In 2018, a Biffa award was granted to the historic building, which also allowed for a kitchen to built.
Bonchurch Old Church. Photo from Visit Isle of Wight.
St Boniface Old Church, known locally as Bonchurch Old Church, has also been removed from Historic England's 'at risk' register.
Problems with the decaying stonework and dampness have now been solved and Islanders are encouraged to take a trip to see it.
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