COUNCIL leader Barrie Grunewald has lead tributes to former mayor Sheila Seddon who died today (September 16) aged 69.

A Labour councillor in Thatto Heath she had been on the council since 1999 and served as mayor between 2007 and 2008.

Grunewald said: "Sheila was a dedicated and energetic councillor who worked tirelessly to help others. During her year as mayor she undertook more than 500 engagements and will always be remembered as someone who always tried to make life better for people across the borough."

Cllr Seddon sat on several council committees including the Audit and Financial Monitoring Overview and Scrutiny Panel, the Corporate Parenting Forum and the Overview and Scrutiny Commission. She was also chairman of the Environment, Regeneration, Housing, Culture and Leisure Overview and Scrutiny Panel.

During her mayoral year she divided her fundraising efforts between two charities, the St Helens based HoneyRose Foundation and the St Helens District Sports Council. Each benefitted by almost £6,500.

Both causes were close to her heart. The HoneyRose Foundation, set up by Lynn Duffy, helps terminally ill adults of all ages to enjoy their very own special day, event or weekend away.

The District Sports Council is an independent body which aims to improve quality of life by promoting physical, active and healthier lifestyles in whatever sport people choose to participate in regardless of their age or ability.

The Union Jack will fly at half-mast over St Helens Town Hall as a mark of respect.