Long Eaton High Street Project.

Last updated 12/08/2026.

A huge £10million construction project in an Erewash gran’s hometown briefly came to a halt – as shopworkers joined crowds lining the streets for her funeral procession.

The final journey of much-loved local character Shirley Kidsley saw the council help to arrange for her hearse to make its way through the pedestrianised heart of Long Eaton. Shirley, pictured, was a familiar face on the High Street until her death at the age of 87.

Crews involved in the colossal revamp of the town centre paused to join those paying tribute as the widow’s coffin passed by. Former textile industry worker Shirley was known locally as “Pocket Rocket” – owing to her big energy and diminutive stature. She was regularly spotted strolling through town even though her daughter Dawn would push her around in a wheelchair. Dawn recalled fondly: “People would call and say, ‘We've just seen your mum walking down the High Street on her own!’"

Shirley’s funeral service was the last ever to be held at West Park Chapel, where none had taken place for years. Her family bought her a plot decades ago so she could be laid to rest next to her husband.

An onlooker as her cortege solemnly proceeded along the High Street said: “It was heartwarming to see the workmen down tools and take their hats off to pay their respects.”

Shops are continuing to open as usual while Long Eaton gets a huge makeover in a showcase project that is being funded by £25million of government Town Deal investment. The work affects Tamworth Road, which the county council has closed to southbound traffic until December. Information about the impact on buses is available from Trentbarton.

“We appreciate that the work to widen Tamworth Road’s pavements is going to mean longer journeys so would urge drivers to allow more time for their trips. At the same we are keen to reiterate our message to local people and others visiting the town: Shops and businesses remain open – so please support them.”