TRIBUTES have been paid to the wife of an Abersychan-born MP and former Chancellor of the Exchequer by a Gwent clergyman.

Dame Jennifer Jenkins, who was married to Roy Jenkins, Lord of Hillhead, died on her 93rd birthday earlier this week.

Mrs Jenkins was awarded a DBE in 1985 prior to her service as chairman of the National Trust from 1986 to 1990.

She also served as the president of the Ancient Monuments Society.

Canon Mark Soady of St Mary’s Vicarage, Abergavenny, was agent to Mr Jenkins during his political career and said that he had “great respect and admiration” for Dame Jenkins.

He said: “She managed to mix fulfilling a full role in society herself with her support and devotion to Roy.

“I last saw Jennifer in Speakers House at a lecture in memory of Roy and although she had aged she was still full of vibrancy.

“Her smile still had a deep warmth to it.”