Tributes have been paid to former Mayor and Oldham Councillor Olwen Chadderton, who has died.

Ms Chadderton was a dedicated political figure who first served Royton North as a Labour Councillor after she was elected in 2004.

She held the position of Mayor of Oldham between 2012 and 2013, and during her term, she expressed great pride and joy in representing the borough.

Ms Chadderton was born and raised in Failsworth by Welsh parents and often credited her coal-mining father for her strong background in politics and trade unions.

She was committed to improving the borough for Oldham residents and was also a passionate advocate for local charities, including the Alzheimer’s Society and Oldham Young Carers.

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Current Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Zahid Chauhan OBE, said: “This is very sad news, and my sincere condolences go out to Olwen’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“Olwen was a kind and caring person with a heart of gold who was devoted to the people of Oldham, especially in her beloved home town of Failsworth."

A book of condolence is available at the Civic Centre entrance, accessible from Rochdale Road, where people are invited to pay a visit and write messages.

The borough flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of Ms Chadderton's funeral, Friday, May 31, with the service set to take place at Oldham Crematorium at 11.30am.