A VETERAN Labour councillor and union stalwart has died of a heart attack, aged 81.

Despite being told he had only six months to live following a water poisoning incident in Italy in the Second World War, George Durham beat the odds and went on to serve Darlington for 29 years.

His work as a councillor was complemented by 51 years as a delegate on the Trades Union Congress, four years on Durham County Council and years of service for countless charities.

He died on Saturday morning, in Darlington Memorial Hospital.

Mr Durham was elected to Darlington Borough Council in August 1970 and went on to serve three terms on the council before he eventually retired in 1999.

"He just thought it was time to let somebody younger have a go," said his son, Brian.

Mr Durham left a widow, Ethel, another son, Graham, and six grandchildren.

Former Darlington mayor, Councillor Pat Buttle, last night paid tribute to Mr Durham, of Hargreave Terrace, Darlington.

"We very much regret losing George, because he was a stalwart of the TUC and a very nice man as well," she said.

A spokesman for Darlington council said: "He was a dedicated and respected member of the council who was well liked by fellow council members and officers alike."

Mr Durham's professional career, after leaving the RAF, saw him work at Cleveland Bridge, in Darlington, for about 40 years. His funeral will take place at Eastbourne Methodist Church, Darlington, on Friday, at 1.30pm.