Tributes have been paid to a dedicated Darlington councillor after her death. 

Hilary Lucas died on Wednesday after an illness, the local Labour party confirmed. 

First elected in 2019 after winning the Red Hall and Lingfield seat, she worked tirelessly in the community to provide continued support and better opportunities for residents. 

Colleagues say Hilary immediately embedded herself in her local area to get “under the skin of the place” and was always at hand to listen to people’s concerns and provide advice. 

“From supporting the lads at the fishing ponds to securing sponsorship for the children’s football teams and enjoying performances by the Red Hall Dancers; Hilary loved spending time with the people of her ward,” an emotional statement from Darlington Labour read. 

The Northern Echo: Hilary Lucas (left) with Labour leader Keir Starmer in Darlington Hilary Lucas (left) with Labour leader Keir Starmer in Darlington (Image: The Northern Echo)

She was heavily involved with Red Hall Primary School as a Busy Reader and School Governor and regularly volunteered at the Age UK cafe and made friends wherever she went. Hilary previously announced she would not stand for re-election on May 4 due to her health. 

Her tenacity was admired by all those around her, with colleagues describing how she never shied away from standing up for underrepresented communities or those who needed assistance. 

Hilary became a regular volunteer at the Bread and Butter Thing - a food waste charity which helps disadvantaged families in Darlington. Here, she was often seen packing bags or sharing a cuppa with residents. 

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Although she only served her community for just under four years she helped change the lives of many, her colleagues said. The Labour statement added: “Hilary helped hundreds of people in her time as a councillor and hundreds more as the loving, wise friend we all knew and will miss deeply.

“A Mackem at heart but a dearly loved adopted daughter of Darlington, Hilary will be missed by many across our town. Our thoughts go out to her family and her many friends, in Darlington and beyond.

“Rest In Peace Hilary.”