Joan Milburn, who died on the evening of August 2, was honorary president of Vision Support Barrow & District (VSBD). Mr Renton said that although Joan held the title of honorary president, her role extended far beyond any formal position. “She knew what it was like to lose her sight,” Mr Renton said. Fierce, funny and forthright“She was a lovely lady but she was fierce,” Mr Renton added. When she was around, you didn’t want to let her down,” Mr Renton said.