A WELL-RESPECTED former councillor from Helmshore has received tributes from across the political spectrum after she lost her battle with cancer.

Anne Goldsworthy, who represented the village for the Conservatives on Rossendale Council for 14 years, was praised for her vigour and workrate by the valley’s political leaders.

Her reputation saw her nominated by Coun Peter Evans, who now represents the ward, as an alderman for Rossendale.

She accepted the position at the annual council meeting last May and later performed what is believed to be her only official function at the armed services flag-raising day, just over a fortnight ago.

Council leader Coun Alyson Barnes said: “It was with deep sadness that I learned of Anne's death from cancer.

"On behalf of the council I wish to pass on my condolences and deepest sympathy to Anne’s family and friends."

“Although she had not been a member of the council for some years she is fondly remembered by some members as a hard-working councillor who fought hard for her area.”

Coun Brian Essex, the Conservative group leader, confirmed that Anne had been fighting cancer for some time.

He said: “I met her only last week while she was waiting for the 484 bus in Broadway to go shopping in Bury.

“Of course she wanted to do know what action was being taken against the travellers camped in Edenfield!

“Anne always wanted action - she was never one for just platitudes and had an opinion on most things. She had served as councillor for Helmshore with diligence and hard work.”

She successfully campaigned against a controversial £25,000 monument, dubbed the Angel of the Tor, which was proposed to celebrate the Millennium, towards the end of her political career.

Her funeral will take place at St Thomas Church in Helmshore, where she worshipped, next Tuesday at 11am.