Rebecca commented over the weekend on the sad passing of Joan Lythgoe MBE:

"Very sad news to hear of the passing of Joan Lythgoe MBE, the founder of Business Opportunity of the Physically Handicapped.

Joan was a real force of nature and someone who made an extraordinary difference to the lives of so many local people. She created BOPH with her husband Geoff more than 30 years ago, and through her vision and determination built something truly special that has helped generations.

She always struck me as a quietly spoken but incredibly strong matriarch, and it somehow felt like she would just go on forever.

It was absolutely right that she was recognised in the Honours List by Her late Majesty for her outstanding work and the fundraising she inspired in others to support the charity.

My heartfelt condolences go to all her lovely family, friends and everyone at BOPH.

RIP Joan. You will not be forgotten."