Oldham's mayoress Afsheen Chauhan has died following her battle with cancer.

Afsheen, who was aged 45, died peacefully at her home this afternoon, Wednesday.

She leaves behind her husband Zahid, the current mayor of Oldham, and their three children.

As a mark of respect, the council will be flying the borough flag at half-mast at Oldham Civic Centre until sunset on the day of her funeral.

Council chief executive Harry Catherall said: “We are incredibly sorry to hear the news about the mayoress, Afsheen.

“While Afsheen took ill early on in Cllr Chauhan’s time as mayor, she bravely continued to support him in his role until the end – a true reflection of her kind and dedicated character.

“Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out to the mayor and his three children at this very difficult time, and they are all in our thoughts.”

Council leader, Cllr Arooj Shah, said: "I’m really saddened to hear of the passing of my much-loved family friend of many years, Afsheen.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Zahid and their dear children at this difficult time."

The mayor, on behalf of his family, has thanked people for their widespread support during the mayoress’ illness, particularly local residents and his political colleagues from across the chamber.

To send a formal message of condolence to the mayor and his family, please contact the mayor’s office at Mayors.Office@oldham.gov.uk.