A DEPUTY mayoress originally from Nelson has died after a short illness.

Coun Kath Harper was born and raised in Nelson but moved to Fylde after completing her nurse and midwifery training. She worked until retirement at Lytham Hospital.

She was appointed deputy mayoress by fellow councillor Linda Nulty in May this year. Wife to Colin, Coun Harper represented St John’s ward in Lytham as a representative of the Ratepayers’ Association from 2007 until her death. She leaves two sons, Tim and Stephen.

Coun Nulty said: “All our thoughts are with Kath’s family at this time. Her last civic engagement was only eight days before she died even though she knew she was ill.

“She was cheerful on that engagement and, indeed, cheerful to the end. That is a true mark of character.”