Animal-lover Claire Bremner, who was known as The Cat Lady, died at her home in Dilton Marsh on January 2, aged 96.

She founded the Cats in Care shelter, which she had run from her home since 1959, taking in stray cats from across the area.

Born Margaret Stephanie Claire Bremner, and always known as Claire, in Wallasey, near Liverpool in June 1917, she grew up with her parents and two older brothers.

Her father was a captain in the Merchant Navy, and she spent part of her childhood in India when he was stationed there.

She worked in an aircraft factory before embarking on a career in journalism. She worked as a newspaper reporter and proof-reader in London, before taking over as editor of a paper in Yorkshire. In 1959 she moved to Dilton Marsh with five of her pet cats, where she set up her sanctuary with a number of friends.

Her friend Lesley Alford, who took over as charity secretary ten years ago, said animals had always been her passion.

“When I first knew her she had 70 cats, and at times even more than that, but now we’re down to about 20,” she said.

“She also had a dog and other small animals, and they took up all her time.

“She was a lovely lady, she was someone you could sit and talk to all day long. She had so many stories, and she was very intelligent.”

A keen gardener, she also enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, and was a big fan of The Archers on Radio 4.

In accordance with her last wishes her body has been left to Bristol University. Her ashes will be scattered in her garden in a small private ceremony.