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Baroness Masham, a Paralympian and the oldest female member of the House of Lords, has died aged 87, the charity she founded has announced. The independent MP, whose name was Susan Lilian Primrose Cunliffe-Lister, was made a life peer in 1970 and was a passionate activist for disability rights. Baroness Masham of Ilton died peacefully in hospital on Sunday, the Spine Injury Association (SIA) announced.
The charity, which was founded by Baroness Masham in 1974, said on its website: "We are extremely saddened to announce that our founder and life chair, Baroness Sue Masham of Ilton, passed away peacefully at Northallerton Hospital on Sunday 12th of March".
“It goes without saying that everyone at the Spine Injury Association (SIA) is devastated to have lost our greatest champion.
“49 years ago, in 1974, he founded SIA and that is why since then we have been able to defend, fight, serve and support thousands of people with spinal cord injuries.
"Our condolences to his family at this sad time."
The UK Parliament website has been updated to say that Baroness Masham has died.
The Paralympics GB website describes Baroness Masham as "one of Britain's first Paralympics medalists" and a "pioneering athlete".
Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson tweeted: "Really sad to hear of the death of Baroness Masham (Sue). First Paralympian in House of Lords. Participated in 1960 games."
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