TRIBUTES have been paid to former Hyndburn mayoress Margaret Cowell ahead of her funeral today.

The 73-year-old, who held the title from 1997 to 1998 when her ex-husband Maurice was mayor, died at Accrington Victoria Hospital after a lengthy illness.

Her son, 38-year-old Renie, said: “She was a charitable woman. She left money in her will to animal and cancer charities. She was a giving person and a very loving person.”

Standing as a Labour candidate, Mrs Cowell ran for councillor in the St Oswald’s ward in the 2000 local elections.

She lost to Conservative candidate Brian Roberts by a majority of 400 votes.

Council leader Miles Parkinson said he had fond memories of Mrs Cowell and was saddened by her death.

He said: “Mrs Cowell was Maurice’s mayor at the time when they were both together and she did her utmost for the borough.

“The role of mayoress is dignified and Mrs Cowell raised money for good causes across the borough.

“It’s very sad, and we will pay our respects today.”

Leader of Hyndburn’s Conservative party, Coun Peter Britcliffe, said: “As mayoress of Hyndburn, Margaret served the borough well with Maurice.

“Our thoughts go out to all her family at this time. She was a nice lady.” Mrs Cowell worked as an office clerk for most of her career, which included stints at bookmakers William Hill and Ladbrokes, and at Mullard in Blackburn.

A keen gardener, she also enjoyed holidays abroad and giving to charity, including Only Foals and Horses, and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Renie said: “She loved rock and roll music from the 50s, and loved going abroad. She did not like the cold weather in winter!”

As well as her son Renie, Mrs Cowell was survived by her daughter, Michelle Demain.

Her family and friends will bid an emotional farewell at Accrington Crematorium, in Burnley Road, at 1.30pm today.

Current mayor Coun Munsif Dad is also expected to attend.