Joan Blencowe

She was diagnosed with breast cancer 10 years ago. She showed an early talent for art and arithmetic, and at nine was helping her father, Harry Blencowe, with his accounts. Fascinated by natural history, she observed caterpillars, beetles and snails, and quickly learned the botanical names of flowers.

She was diagnosed with epilepsy when aged 12, the treatment lasting a number of years. Her school work, however, was not affected, and she passed 10 O-levels, several at distinction, and obtained good A-level grades.

Although none was in art, it was Art and Technology that she chose to study in Cheltenham, to where her parents moved.

She went on to do an MSc in Landscape Architecture at Wye College, staying in digs with the family of the Archbishop of Canterbury, an experience which deepened her interest in Christianity.

Her professional career began as a landscape architect in London, followed by Liverpool and then Barnsley.

She bought the original lodge to Lascelles Hall near Huddersfield, and became an active member of Kirkheaton Parish Church.

Professionally, her remit was to design the “green” areas where trees are planted near motorways.

Always having wanted to run her own arts and crafts business, she became self-employed. Taking on professional photography assignments, she obtained a computing degree at Huddersfield University and produced panoramic views for Manchester Airport and the Welsh Parliament buildings.

Continuing as a professional photographer, Miss Blencowe remained passionate about the preservation of the countryside. She took photos for the National Trust, but always retained her interest in landscape architecture.

She is survived by her sister Catherine.