THE heartbroken husband of a Redditch artist who died after losing a battle with cancer has paid tribute to his wife.

Albert Pirie's wife Laura, who lived in Hillside, Southcrest, found her talent for painting while suffering from ovarian cancer.

Laura, 69, who passed away on Wednesday, March 21, specialised in pictures of pets until she fancied a change and painted a portrait of the Queen, which earned her a letter of thanks from Her Majesty.

Mr Pirie, 71, a former British Aluminium worker, said: "All the paintings that she did, including the one of the Queen, are in the house and anybody who wants to come and see them is welcome.

"I wouldn't sell any now that she has passed away because they bring back memories of when she was working on them."

Laura, who used be a shop assistant and then worked for the police, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1993 and underwent chemotherapy at the Alexandra Hospital.

She had never received any formal art training but quickly realised the benefits of painting and became a member of Redditch Art Circle and had some of her work exhibited at Redditch Library.

Painting was not her only hobby as she was also a keen entertainer, performing songs and comedy routines at old people's homes and hospices.

Mr Pirie said: "She was a lovely woman and did a lot for charity and she often did plays at the Palace Theatre.

"She also did the Walsall Lights - it's a bit similar to Blackpool Lights - and she used to work with comedians and provided the entertainment for guests at dinner parties."

Laura leaves behind sons Andrew, 43, and 41-year-old Kevin, who sang at her funeral.