Tributes have been paid to an influential businesswoman who raised thousands for charitable causes, following her death at the age of 87.

Christine Davenport was recognised in 1997's New Year's Honours List with an MBE for her charity fundraising and, as recently as 2023, set up a fundraiser in conjunction with Great Ormond Street Hospital for research into genetic condition Usher Syndrome Type II, with which her great-granddaughter Ava Taylor-Davies was diagnosed.

Christine lived in the centre of Worcester for the last eight years, having previously lived in Knightwick, near Martley, for three decades. After a year of ill health, Christine died on Wednesday, June 26.

One of Christine's four children, Sarah Whitticase, said: "She was a wonderful mother - generous, loving and caring.

"She was such a sophisticated lady, and always dignified."

Born in Bournville, Birmingham on May 24, 1937, Christine attended Halesowen Grammar School as a teenager before going into the workplace for the first time at her mother's dress shop in Blackheath.

Christine was involved in the Midlands' local art scene from a young age, forming amateur theatre company Startime Variety in 1967. She wrote, produced and starred in pantomimes and stage shows for much of her adult life.

Christine's daughter, Sarah Whitticase said her mother was immensely proud of her MBE, which she was awarded in 1997.Christine's daughter, Sarah Whitticase, said her mother was "immensely proud of her MBE", which she was awarded in 1997. (Image: Sarah Whitticase)

Her career in the business world started at Muraspec, where she became a sales manager and developed her reputation in the commercial and development sectors.

Christine's impressive business achievements include becoming the first female chair of Birmingham's Institute of Marketing, whilst her ability to cultivate networks ensured she made an impact on Worcester.

Mrs Whitticase said: "She was a well-recognised face in Worcester, attending the Mayor's Charity Ball each year and always part of the Worcester Cathedral service and procession through the city during Remembrance Day.

"She was a natural born leader, and well respected by her peers."

Christine held further chairperson positions in Worcestershire, including at Worcester College of Technology and Worcester City Council's Standards and Ethics Committee.

Christine is survived by her partner, Norman Collins, her four children; Simon, Nigel, Sarah, and Louise alongside 12 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service was held on Monday, July 15 at St Georges CofE church in Worcester.