TRIBUTES have been paid by Ye Fraternitie of Olde Selebians to the Dowager Countess of Harewood.

The countess, Patricia Lascelles, died earlier this month after a long illness, aged 91.

The countess was the Fraternitie’s first lady honorary member, after becoming involved in the controversy over the naming of the New Selby War Memorial Hospital.

The original Selby War Memorial Hospital was opened in the 1920s by Princess Mary, mother of the countess’ husband Lord Harewood George Lascelles.

Lord Harewood was contacted by the Fraternitie for support in retaining the original name, rather than the proposed Selby Community Hospital.

He agreed, and it was decided by the group that a plaque would be presented to him for his help. However, he died before the new name was announced.

After his death, the countess agreed to receive the plaque and the honour from the Fraternitie, and invited members to Harewood House for a presentation.

Paying tribute to the countess, committee member Cyril Pickup said: “She was a very gracious lady, welcoming us into her home for the presentation, and the news of her death was a big shock to members, who held her in high esteem, being our first lady honorary member.”

A funeral service will be held tomorrow (Friday, May 18), at 11.30am at All Saints Church, Harewood House.