A charity patron described as a ‘saint’ has died.

Kath Osborne, 92, devoted over three decades to the community in Waltham Forest through charity CREST and the church network.

She died peacefully in Whipps Cross Hospital on December 27, following a short illness.

Mrs Osborne joined CREST which helps to educate and socialise people, as well as promoting inter-faith dialogue and unity, in the 1980s.

Previously, she worked with the Greater London Council.

For many years she was a key person in the organisation of CREST’s Annual Holiday for Older People with a Disability.

Also a lifelong member of Shernhall Methodist Church, Mrs Osborne was well known for her compassion and relentless drive to help others.

In her retirement years she was key to many projects providing help for the elderly and homeless.

Alan Horne manager of CREST, based in Truro Road, Walthamstow said: “Her care and compassion for older people was only matched by her passion for the care of people with mental health problems.

“She was a key figure in the establishment of the Welcome In — a weekly mental health drop-in run under the auspices of the Wood Street Neighbourhood Group of Churches.

“She quickly became a member of the CREST Management Committee acting as Secretary and then Chair during the 1990s.

“Kath was also a stalwart of the Oasis — a weekly ecumenical prayer and meditation group underpinning its work.

Despite increasing ill health in her later years, Mrs Osborne continued her work and was made a patron of the charity.

Reverend Anne Sardeson from Walthamstow United Reformed Church called her a ‘wonderful woman’ with a ‘real love’ for all people.

“I remember her as a very intelligent, committed and compassionate woman. She will be greatly missed.” Rev Ray Vincent of Leytonstone United Free Church added.

Reverend Simon Heathfield, Team Rector, St Mary’s Parish Church, Walthamstow said: “So sorry to hear this news.

“A real saint. I am sure she will rest in peace and rise in glory.”

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Kath Osborne will take place at Shernhall Methodist Church, Shernhall Street, Walthamstow at 5.30pm January 20.