Residents tell of shock after Shropshire OAP's home burgled while she lay dying
Residents have voiced their shock after burglars struck at the home of a leading Shropshire community figure while she lay dying in a hospice.
The family of 83-year-old Audrey Elcock discovered the burglary when they went to clear her fridge after she had died in a hospice on February 8.
Mrs Elcock owned and ran the Kings Arms, Claverley, for a number of years. She ran the pub with her husband before he died.
Mrs Elcock was a central figure in the community having been a member of Claverley Garden Club, treasurer of Claverley Village Hall, a member of Claverley Indoor Bowling League and Claverley Ladies Luncheon Club.
Claverley parish clerk Gill Price said she hoped the police would be able to catch those responsible for the burglary.
"It was shocking to hear that her bungalow had been burgled, especially under the circumstances," said Mrs Price.
"I just hope that the police are able to apprehend who is responsible.
"It's absolutely disgusting. Burglary is bad enough under normal circumstances. It's dreadful for the family."
Mrs Price paid tribute Mrs Elcock and her role in the community.
"Audrey was the stalwart of the community. She was treasurer of the village hall committee for a considerable number of years. She was involved with lots of things in the village. Her passing is a big loss to the community. It was very, very sad to hear of her passing," she said.
"She was a lovely lady who's going to be missed very much by the community."
Mrs Elcock's niece Jennifer Cartwright, who lives in Ditton Priors, said: "It's almost as if it's got to be somebody local because of knowing she wasn't there."
Garry Ward, vicar of All Saints church, Claverley, paid tribute to Mrs Elcock's role in the church and her willingness to volunteer.
"Audrey attended church every week and was involved in all the flower festivals every year. She was more of a steward, but she was always available and always volunteered. She was part of everything at the church," he said.
Mrs Elcock's funeral will be held at Telford Crematorium on February 25 at 11am.
Afterwards, there will be a service at All Saints, Claverley, at 12.15pm.
Anyone with information about the burglary can contact police on 101 and quote reference 134s of February 9.
