A ‘WELL-loved’ priest who served an East Lancashire town for more than a decade has died following a battle with illness.

Father Richard O’Connor, who had been the priest at St Mary’s RC Church in Haslingden since 2000, died on Saturday.

It is thought the 73-year-old had been suffering from cancer for quite some time.

A colleague paid tribute to Fr O’Connor, describing him as a ‘good pastor’.

Born in Ireland, Fr O’Connor was ordained as a priest in June 1964.

In a career spanning five decades, he served at churches in Greater Manchester, Kenya and finally Haslingden.

Fr John Flynn, of the Diocese of Salford, said: “We are very sad at the death of Fr O'Connor, a faithful priest for nearly 50 years in the diocese.

“He was a well-loved and good pastor and we pray for the repose of his soul and for his parishioners and family.”

Coun Gladys Sandiford, Mayor of Rossendale, said Fr O’Connor had made a big impact and left a lasting legacy in the Valley through his interfath work.

She said: “He was absolutely lovely to work with.

“I was with him last week to arrange an occasion at St Veronica’s to raise money for the Mayor’s charity and he was happy to do that.

"I’m really very sad for the Roman Catholics who have lost a very devoted leader in the Valley."