Heartbreaking tributes to the 'Joan Collins of Burnage’

A beloved community stalwart who ran a local shop in Burnage for more than two decades has died at the age of 77. Diana Hough managed Burnage Wine Stores on Burnage Lane with husband Graham from 1982 until 2008.

Also known as Di, she was lovingly compared to the likes of Joan Collins and Angie from EastEnders for her ‘glamour and smile’. Her family described her as ‘the most glamorous sister, wife, mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, aunty and friend’ after she passed away on on April 29 following a short illness. In a touching tribute, daughter Carolyn Williams described Di as her ‘beautiful mum and best friend’.

Son Robert Williams told the M.E.N: “They ran the quintessential old-fashioned community shop. If they didn't have it they would get it.

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"Everyone knew Graham and Di. Over the years they had a few German Shepherd guard dogs in the shop but because my mum pampered them, they looked fierce but were soft, really.”

Rob said Di and Graham often served local lads Noel and Liam Gallagher, while their mum Peggy was a regular customer. Following news of her passing, those who met Di over the years shared memories of the shopkeeper who ‘had time for everyone’.

Family friend Alison Howell posted on Facebook: “For those that knew Diana you will remember her for her kindness, her smile and of course the glamour she brought to Burnage. Graham and Diana were part of the Burnage community for many years and there is no shop on the lane now like theirs. The shop where you could buy anything from super strong lager to a 10p mix and if they didn't have it they would have it the next day.”

Trisha Sheridan wrote: “Oh this is