ROYALIST Rose May Hammerton's dream was to see 100 so she could receive her telegram from The Queen.

She didn't quite make it, passing away peacefully after a short illness at the age of 87.

The loving mother of two and grandmother of three devoted her life to her family as a stay at home mum to son Paul, who now lives in Los Angeles, and daughter Laura Lea who is close by in Woolston. She provided her beloved grandchildren, Abigail, Jacob and Emma, with a host of wonderful, unique memories from their exploits.

Rose was born into a large local family with five sisters and three brothers

She was very active growing up, enjoying running and netball particularly. She was also a great walker until arthritis affected her hip and she had to have a hip replacement.

A lifelong animal lover, she had a succession of cats and dogs as pets and was fortunate to become great friends with her neighbours.

Rose suffered with dementia in her later years and had been living in a care home since October 2018.

Her funeral is due to take place at Wessex Vale Crematorium in West End today at 1pm.

Due to current restrictions, a private cremation will take place with just her children and grandchildren present.

Donations for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution can be sent to Jonathan Terry Funeral Directors in Bitterne.