THE son of a former Darlington postmistress has paid tribute to his mother, who has died from cancer.

Rosemary Parker, 53, of Coniscliffe Road, died on Wednesday, only days after being diagnosed with stomach cancer.

Her youngest son Phillip, also from Darlington, said she was well-known by people in the town and was a caring and helpful woman who would do anything to help anyone.

She worked in Cockerton post office for 11 years before retiring last year.

Before that, for four years, she and her husband, Keith, 56, ran a milk round in the North Road and Haughton area of the town.

Mr Parker, 31, said: "She was known by so many people because she was involved in many organisations and clubs - sewing and art classes, and the allotment association.

"She would also walk for miles with her dog, Jess, and so people knew her for that, too. She was a great person and a perfect mother."

His father said: "She always put others before herself and she had many friends."

Mrs Parker was admitted to hospital on Sunday, August 8 and diagnosed with cancer the following Friday.

The funeral will take place at 1.45pm on Thursday, at St Augustine's Church, Darlington, followed by burial at West Cemetery and refreshments at the New Grange Hotel.

Mrs Parker also leaves another son and four grandchildren.