The last living link in the Coleshill elephant story has broken with the death at 93 of Peggy Childs.

Peggy loved Coleshill and was very proud of its history. She became part of it when she was guest of honour at the unveiling of the elephant artwork opposite the town hall.

The artwork commemorates the circus elephant which died as it walked through town at the beginning of the last century. Peggy’s husband Frank was there when it choked on a turnip and died. 

The artwork also commemorates Coleshill’s link with Typhoo tea, and Peggy posed for a cup of tea with the designers and mayor at the unveiling.

Peggy was born in Ladywood in June.1927, but moved to Doris Road when she was one. She lived there ever since.

Peggy went to the Central School (St. Pauls) by the bridge, and became a member of the Girls Training Corps, open to girls aged 14 to 20: motto “To serve and train for service”.

She began her working career at J P Millers outfitters and tailors on the High Street, where she eventually became chief buyer. 

She left in 1967 to have their son Christopher. Christopher developed a brain tumour and died in March 1979 at 11. Peggy was a strong and committed member of Coleshill parish church for many years and made a kneeler in his memory. It was never far from her regular seat.

Peggy’s business career began when she opened the Workbox haberdashery shop in a small room at the back of what is now Penny Johnson Florist, then moved across the road to 109 High Street, now Glitzy Bits. She retired in 1987.

Peggy continued to be very active a member of Ladies Probus, Soroptomists, Save the Children, Coleshill Civic Society as well as a Trustee for the Simon Digby Trust.

A memorial service will be held at the church in the summer.