Thriplow parish councillors have paid tribute following the death of former Speaker of the House of Commons and village resident Baroness Betty Boothroyd.

Betty Boothroyd was Speaker from 1992 to 2000, the first - and so far only - woman to have held the role.

She was also MP for West Bromwich and West Bromwich West from 1973 to 2000, and after resigning as Speaker sat as a crossbench peer in the House of Lords.

She lived in Thriplow for more than 30 years, and died on Sunday at the age of 93.

Thriplow and Heathfield parish councillor David Easthope said: "Parish councillors were very sorry to hear of the death of Baroness Boothroyd.

"During her busy life in public service and after her retirement Betty greatly valued the privacy that living in Thriplow gave her.

"She was a lovely lady who always looked immaculate even when simply going along to the Thriplow shop or for a meal at our village pub – The Green Man.

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"After her retirement she supported local organisations by giving excellent and very entertaining talks about her life and work in politics. 

"Her presence in the village, together with her wit and wisdom will be missed by many." 

North East Herts MP Oliver Heald described Baroness Boothroyd as a "wonderful Speaker", and added: "Betty Boothroyd broke the glass ceiling by becoming the first female Speaker. 

"She was joyful and witty but could be suitably firm when required. I was on very good personal terms with her and will miss her."