A BROTTON woman, believed to be the longest serving member of the Labour party, has died at the age of 97.

Marian Cooper, of Brentford Court, was a member of the Labour party for more than 80 years and was a founding member of the party's Skelton and Brotton branch.

She used to tell local Labour councillors that their first meetings were held in woods in East Cleveland because they were so fearful of being found out.

Mrs Cooper said she had met every single Labour prime minister - even travelling to London to meet Tony Blair at the age of 96.

Coun Richard Rudland, who represents Brotton on Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council and is also a member of Skelton and Brotton Labour Party, said: "She was an influential character and she will be sorely missed."

Her funeral was due to take place on Wednesday at Brotton Methodist Chapel. Coun Vilma Collins, Redcar and Cleveland mayor, and Labour stalwarts from the area were expected to attend.

Mrs Cooper leaves a son, Kenneth