A MEMORIAL service for the late Mo Mowlam MP has been announced and will take place later this year.

The former North-East MP's family has been consulted about the plans, drawn up by a civic "brains trust", led by Redcar and Cleveland Mayor Peter Spencer.

Councillor Spencer revealed the plan at a council meeting in Eston Town Hall.

He said: "I am pleased to announce that a memorial service will be held in early December.

"We have spoken to Mo's family and they are happy with our arrangements.

"We are concentrating on the service first of all, then we will begin to consider a permanent memorial for Mo.

"We have had plenty of suggestions from the public, for which we are very grateful."

More details on the format of the service are expected to be released when Coun Spencer and former mayors meet on Monday, October 24.

Mrs Mowlam died in August following a short stay in a hospice.