A LEGEND of Middlewich's waterways who died in March following a long illness had a send off to match her remarkable life today, Friday.

Maureen Shaw's coffin was transported by boat along the Trent and Mersey Canal from her former home at Wardle Lock to the funeral at St Michael's Church at 11am.

The narrowboat Tay transported Maureen for her final voyage which is the sister boat of Spey, which she used when she worked on the canals.

Around 50 people followed the boat on foot along the towpath to pay their respects.

Maureen was one of the original boatwomen who grew up working the oil boats.

She was adopted into the Jinks boating family and became one of the last professional horse boaters before marrying boatman Jack Shaw.

Maureen died on March 17 at Leighton Hospital after a long illness but her mind remained sharp until the end.

She was interviewed by Middlewich Town Council for its Canal and Salt project.

It is understood that Maureen was born on a narrowboat and she lived for many years at Lock Cottage at Wardle Lock which she called 'her lock'.

The lock was sold at auction by British Waterways just two days before Maureen died.

She was also well known as 'Auntie Maureen' offering friendly advice to inexperienced boaters

Middlewich resident Dave Roberts said: "This really was a very special occasion, not only for Middlewich but also for the whole canal community and we are unlikely ever to see anything like it again."

- If you saw the funeral procession or if you knew Maureen and would like to leave a tribute, contact reporter David Morgan on 01606 813623, email david.morgan@guardiangrp.co.uk or comment below.

- The Guardian would also welcome any photos of Maureen for possible publication