A DEDICATED councillor who continued to attend meetings after having his legs amputated has died.

Chester-le-Street Civic Centre's flag was at half-mast after Bob Suddick, 77, district councillor for the Kimblesworth and Plawsworth ward, died on Thursday night.

A former mining engineer, Coun Suddick represented the people of the two small villages since 1977.

He had five major operations in six weeks this year, including having both legs removed, after suffering a blocked artery last year.

Councillor Malcolm Pratt, leader of Chester-le-Street District Council, said: "Bob had been a very good, solid councillor who made rational decisions.

"He suffered much ill health last year but returned to the council even after having his legs amputated.

"He was a good ward councillor who represented the people with great diligence."

His widow, Nancy, spoke of his bravery and dedication. She said: "He still wanted to go to his meetings, so I took him.

"It was typical of Bob. He would do anyone a good turn and never turned anyone away.

"He was a fighter until he couldn't fight any more. He will be well missed in the village."

A member of Kimbleworth's St Philip's and St James' Church, he leaves two daughters, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at St Philip's and St James' at 10.30am on Wednesday, to be followed by a private burial.