THE funeral of a former Mayoress of Durham who died aged 83 was due to be held on Thursday.

Lily Stobbs, of Langley Moor, who died last Friday, was the wife of Walter Stobbs, who was the city's first citizen in 1982-83.

Mr Stobbs, a butcher who was Independent city councillor for Brandon from 1979 to 1983, lost his seat in elections weeks before his term as Mayor ended. He died in January 1990.

Mrs Stobbs leaves two daughters, a son, grandchildren and great-granchildren.

Her funeral was being held at St John's Church at 11.15am.