TRIBUTES have paid to a "dynamic" mum and former "passionate" camera club secretary who had "so many strings to her bow". 

Elizabeth Cook, who died on June 3, had been a member of Conwy Camera Club since the 1950s. [She had followed in her father's footsteps who had also been a member of the club].

She moved to England but returned to Conwy and rejoined the club in 1999. Her late husband Brian, who died last year, also joined.

Elizabeth and Brian, who had three children and two grandchildren and lived in the near Ty’n y Groes, in the Conwy Valley, received 'life membership' of Conwy Camera Club in 2010.

North Wales Pioneer: Elizabeth and Brian Cook and Ernie Kingman. Ernie was a member of the camera club from 1949 to 1956.Elizabeth and Brian Cook and Ernie Kingman. Ernie was a member of the camera club from 1949 to 1956. (Image: Submitted)

Elizabeth's daughter Carolyn Evans said: "Mum was a dynamic woman with so many strings to her bow. She was a fabulous cook and also loved baking and trying out new recipes. Another string was that she made all our early clothes and knitted fabulous Aran jumpers for all the family.

"I have many, many happy memories of being lulled to sleep with the nightly sound of her sewing machine whirring away or the knitting needles clicking or to have to hold still as she measured me up for one of her latest creations when I returned home from school - when all I wanted was to watch Blue Peter.

"Floristry and creating Christmas decorations also came easily to her. She was always a passionate gardener but the garden my mum and dad created at their cottage in Tyn y Groes was outstanding.

"Dogs were also a huge passion of theirs - helping out homing abandoned dogs as well as having four of their own. 

"Mum took up photography in later life and we all know how passionate she - and dad - were about the camera club.

"What many people don’t know is the years she spent researching her family tree - using her skills as a librarian and her self- acquired digital skills to good effect. She eventually wrote a book outlining in massive detail about 250 years of history - which still astounds me today whenever I read it."

Elizabeth and Brian attended their last camera club meeting in November 2017.

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Mike Castle, who recently stepped down as chairperson of Conwy Camera Club, said: “Personally my memories are of Elizabeth and her keenness for the social well-being of the club.

"Elizabeth was always there to welcome new members and to introduce them to others in the club. She came across as very caring and will be fondly remembered by many here in Conwy.”

Paying tribute on behalf of camera club members, Rhodri Clark said: "Elizabeth and Brian’s enthusiasm and energy helped to transform the club into the biggest in Wales, with over 100 members just eight years after they joined. This increase in numbers owed much to Elizabeth’s tireless work as membership secretary.

"Elizabeth always ensured that new members were made to feel welcome.

"If any member had been absent from club activities for a prolonged period, she contacted them to check that they were well."

Carolyn added: "I am so pleased that so many people have happy memories of both my parents because they had so many happy memories of the club.

"I am so glad they played a part in creating the success it is today."