TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of a Woodford Green woman, who at 98 was the oldest student to attend Wansfell College in Theydon Bois.

Hilda Tarran took part in a three-day glass painting course at the college in November and made a huge impression on everyone at the college.

Mrs Tarran, of Broadway Close, died in her sleep on Wednesday, January 22.

College principal Marilyn Taylor said: "She was a lovely lady and we're all very sad to hear that she has passed away. She was absolutely inspirational and she'll be much missed. She had such a wonderful philosophy and wanted to do new things."

Mrs Tarran's daughter, Miriam, said: "She was a very gutsy and determined person. She just kept energetic, it was absolutely fantastic that she would go out. The other day she visited her friend and walked more than a mile home. But I think she would describe herself as an ordinary person."

She added: "Obviously we hoped she would make it to 100. It was unexpected but she died peacefully and it's very consoling that it happened like that."

One of Mrs Tarran's oldest friends, Hilda Smith, said: "I shall miss her very much indeed. I had a great admiration for her. She never let anything get her down. Life is full of ups and downs but she didn't let anything get her down and that was a great thing, I think she could tackle anything."

Jane Dunsterville, who taught Mrs Tarran on the college's glass painting course, said: "She was terrific with a very positive attitude. I try very hard to make my class into a family and Hilda helped bring the class together as a group.

"Everyone was fascinated by her stories but she wasn't just reminiscing. Her philosophy was very good too and her approach to life is terrific. I would almost say that we got more out of her than she got out of the class."

Mrs Tarran, who had four children, was widowed in 1981. For many years she was a very active member of the WI. She also enjoyed playing bridge, hand crafts and cooking. Her funeral was held yesterday at Manor Park Crematorium, east London.

January 28, 2003 09:30