Bench unveiled to remember Ida

A NEW memorial bench has been unveiled in Tonge in memory of a true community stalwart who was born right opposite its siting, 100 years ago.

Family and friends of Ida Wright, who died last year aged 99, were present to dedicate a specially commissioned bench in memory of the lady dubbed the “Boudica of Breedon” who lived life to the fullest – even learning sailing in her 80s!

Friends and family helped fund the new bench which is situated next to the new post box on Breedon Lane in Tonge, alongside the house where Ida was born on February 17, 1923, and also opposite the Lord Nelson, her home for many years

At the dedication ceremony, Ida’s friend of 40 years Sue Dore spoke about Ida’s long life and in particular her role in the “Battle for Breedon”, a fight for the village’s community centre which famously went all the way to the High Court

The protracted battle was eventually lost by Breedon Community Association, of which Ida was a key member All groups which ran there closed down, including Tiny Tots play group, a children’s sports club and an afternoon tea club for the over 60s

But despite the loss Ida’s indomitable spirit was not forgotten

Sue said: “During the five years leading up to the case and beyond the result Ida was always there with sound counsel and support She was a very special person who you knew would never let you down ”

Ida was born at White House Farm in Tonge and began work aged 14 at Langley Priory

During her long life she was variously a farmer, barmaid at Tiffany’s nightclub in Coalville, and trained cook

A keen traveller who had many adventures abroad including in New Zealand, Sierra Leone, Uzbekistan and Pakistan, Ida was just as busy at home with many community roles including church warden at Breedon Priory Church and