A much-loved grandma described as “one of the original DFLs” has died of cancer just weeks after first complaining of stomach pain.

Maggie Spice, 83, moved from London to Kent in the 1960s, later settling in Seasalter, where she lived for more than five decades.

Her daughter, Clare, described her as a wonderful mother and doting grandmother who loved karaoke and darts, often enjoying evenings out at local venues such as the Homing Club House in Seasalter and The Four Horseshoes in Graveney.

“She wasn’t like a normal 83-year-old - she was young at heart,” said Clare.

“She would go out partying more than I did, dancing and singing - even in the weeks before she was diagnosed, she was out partying.”

Maggie first grew fond of Kent in her 20s while on ‘working holidays’ with her family, hop-picking in the countryside.

She was employed at the Tate & Lyle sugar factory in London before meeting her late husband, Kenny Spice, in 1960 and making the move to Kent permanent.

“She was one of the original DFLs,” Clare added, referring to the phrase ‘Down From London’, often used to describe those who relocate to the county from the capital.

The couple lived in Faversham, Whitstable and Herne Bay before finally settling in Seasalter, where they spent 51 years together.

Over the years, Maggie worked in a range of jobs including fruit-picking, cleaning and, later in life, caring for the elderly at Ladyfield care home in Whitstable.

Clare said her mother remained full of life and laughter throughout her later years.

“It was only last year, for my daughter’s birthday, that she dressed up as Elvis,” she recalled.

“She was a very loving, caring nan and the life and soul of any party.”

After complaining of stomach pains, Maggie was swiftly diagnosed with cancer and died peacefully on April 23.

A celebration of her life will be held at 2pm on Friday, May 23, at Seasalter Christian Centre in Faversham Road. The family has requested no flowers.