THE FUNERAL of a politician who proudly served the people of Hyndburn took place yesterday, November 16.

Sheelagh Delaney, former Labour party councillor for the Oswaldtwistle ward, died last Friday November 9 after a five year illness with cancer.

A passionate campaigner for women's rights, tributes were paid to Mrs Delaney at Hyndburn’s full council meeting on Thursday night, where a moments silence also took place.

Church ward councillor Jean Battle said of her friend: “She was passionate about getting women into politics and she was not one to sit back and not speak out about things.

“I would like to pay tribute to Sheila and her hard work."

Cllr Tim O’kane added: “She served Oswaldtwistle with distinction and will be sadly missed.”

Mrs Delaney was elected to council in 1990 and served alongside her husband Bill Goldsmith who was a councillor for the Knuzden Ward.

A Constituency Labour Party, planned for yesterday was cancelled to allow members to attend her funeral at Carlisle Crematorium.

Kimberly Whitehead, CLP secretary, said: “Our thoughts are with Bill and Sheelagh’s friends and family at this time.”

Those attending the funeral were asked to wear red in remembrance of Mrs Delaney.