TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular and tireless community worker.

Mary Louise McMahon, of Guardian Court, Darlington, died last week aged 86.

Mrs McMahon, who was know as Molly, was the husband of Ernest, a former manager of Barclay's Bank in the town. He was also a Conservative councillor and former director of Darlington Football Club.

Before she died, Mrs McMahon was still the president of the local Conservative women's group

She served as the treasurer and chairman of the local branch of the National Council for Women, where she helped set up an exchange between Darlington and its twin town in Mulheim, Germany, which is still running.

Mrs McMahon also worked for the Red Cross and was treasurer for the Camphill Village Trust at Brotton, in East Cleveland.

Her son, Peter, said: "Whenever she's become involved in an organisation, she's always committed to it.

"She wasn't afraid to make her views known and would always say what she thought.

"But was prepared to listen to what others had to say and take their views on board."

Her daughter, Mary McLaren, added: "She was also a wonderful mother and always found time for you and was always there.

"In many ways she was the traditional housewife and as we left home she became more involved in other organisations."

Mrs McMahon is also survived by her other son, Robbie, and three grandchildren, Nigel, Fiona and Katrina.

Her funeral takes place at All Saints Church, Blackwell, at 3pm on Thursday.

Donations can be made in lieu of flowers to Cancer Research UK.