A “warm and kind” woman who “threw her heart and soul” into setting up a beautiful manor house and gardens has died aged 80.

Lesley Dawes, who “if you met you would never forget” opened Mount Ephraim Gardens in Hernhill, Faversham, with her husband of 54 years, Sandys, in 1985.

The country home had been in Sandys family since 1695, and they moved in after his father’s death in 1982, transforming the ten acres of grassy estate into a popular attraction.

The business expanded over the years and also hosts weddings and events, as well as holiday lets and glamping pods.

Lesley’s daughter Lucy Dawes said: “Mum first came to Mount Ephraim in the late 1960s, having travelled overland and sea from Australia with Dad whom she met at Melbourne university.

“From a more humble background in Ballarat near Melbourne, I know she found it a little daunting at first, but it came to be where she would call home.

“Even though Mum was a microbiologist by background, she threw her heart and soul into the gardens and opened a tea room for the visitors.

“Garden events followed, then outdoor theatre, weddings and festivals.

“Nothing was ever too much for mum, dad and my grandmother Miz to try.”

After four years of illness, Lesley’s health went downhill, and she died peacefully at home on Tuesday evening, aged 80, surrounded by her five children and husband.

Her daughter said: “With a large, extended family and many, many friends from all over the world, we filled the house with joy and laughter, a little bit of mischief, and so much fun.

“Going through the incredible photo albums that mum has compiled over the past 55 years, we realise just how much fun and happiness there has been here, for so many, not just our family.

“Mum and dad were the incredible force behind it.”

She describes her late parent as eccentric and honest, adding: “You could say she had no filter.

“She was also warm, kind, and so much fun.

“We know mum will be missed by many and mourned deeply by her family.

“I always say, if you met her, you didn't forget her, and I know she will have touched the lives of many of our neighbours, visitors, staff, wedding guests and suppliers over the years.

“Almost everyone who knew her will have a funny story about her - there are just so many!

“Dad has been amazing to mum for all these years, and especially since she got poorly.

“Together, you were an incredible team, the best of friends, and we kids and Mount Ephraim were just so lucky to have you.

“We love you, mum, and will miss you forever.”

Lesley’s funeral will be held at Saint Michael's church in Hernhill, followed by a wake at Mount Ephraim, with a date to be confirmed.

She is survived by her loving husband Sandys, her children, Jenny, William, Lucy, Julia and Alice, 13 grandchildren and one great granddaughter.