Tributes have been flooding in after a former Oldham mayor died earlier this week.
Valerie Sedgwick was a member of the Liberal Democrat party and served as a councillor in the borough from 1992 to 2016.
She was a councillor for the Lees ward (1992 to 2004) and Saddleworth and Lees ward from 2004 onwards.
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Ms Sedgwick also served a term as the mayor between the 2003/04 year and sat on many council committees, including as chair of the licensing committee.
During her time as mayor, Ms Sedgwick was fiercely dedicated to improving the borough for residents in Oldham as well as being a strong advocate for local charities and tackling anti-social behaviour.
She died on Tuesday, August 1 this week.
The current mayor of Oldham, Cllr Zahid Chauhan OBE, said: "This is very sad news and my sincere condolences go out to Val's family and friends at this difficult time.
"Val was a popular and emphatic colleague who was devoted to the people of Oldham, especially in her home village of Lees, of which she was so fond.
"Her loss will be greatly felt."
Council leader, Cllr Arooj Shah, said Ms Sedgwick served the borough with "such dedication" and "was so passionate about improving Lees and serving her community".
Cllr Shah added: "I am sure there will be many Oldhamers with fond memories of Val who would like to pay tribute in the coming days."
Oldham Liberal Democrat leader, Councillor Howard Sykes MBE, also paid tribute, describing her as a "passionate and caring ambassador".
Cllr Sykes said: “Val was Mrs Lees. By far one of the most popular councillors that I have ever worked with and a very valuable member of the Liberal Democrat Group.
"She was popular because she was dedicated to serving and championing the whole community of Lees and later Saddleworth West and Lees.
"She worked hard every day.
"You could not wish for a better colleague.
"Even after she stepped down from Oldham Council in 2016, Val continued her work in the community.
"She was a first-class consort to councillor Barbara Beeley when she was vice chair of Saddleworth Parish Council.
"She will be sorely missed by us all.”
The Liberal Democrat Group said it has sent its deepest condolences to Ken, Val's partner, her family and loved ones.
A book of condolence has been set up at the Civic Centre entrance on Rochdale Road.
The borough flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of her funeral.
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