TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular mayors' secretary and charity worker who died suddenly after a short battle with cancer.

As an administrative assistant for Clitheroe Town Council, Christine Thomspon, 54, was secretary to the town's last three mayors.

She died on Sunday, leaving husband Coun Robert Thompson, deputy leader of Ribble Valley Council, and daughter Nicola.

Coun Thompson, speaking from the couple's home in Wiswell, said: "She was very generous and put tremendous effort into her charity work. She also had a keen interest in world affairs and helping deprived communities.

"She was diagnosed with lung cancer only on December 14, so it has come as a massive shock."

Clitheroe mayor Coun Joan Knight said: "I remember her as always charming, efficient and most importantly, patient with the general public. She'll be sadly missed."

John Wells, secretary of the town council, said: "Everyone here is shocked and saddened to hear of Christine's death.