Mayor dies following long illness

Councillor Maureen Chaplin, 66, was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a type of cancer, in 2006 and died at her home in Gateshead on Wednesday.

Gateshead Council leader Mick Henry said they were shocked and saddened and their thoughts were with her family.

Mrs Chaplin, who had recently retired after 24 years as a postwoman, leaves her husband, two daughters and three grandchildren.

Mrs Chaplin was a governor at Highfield and Chopwell Primary Schools.

Considerable bravery

She was also a member of various committees including planning and development, regulatory and licensing committees.

Councillor Mick Henry, leader of Gateshead Council, said: "We have been aware that Maureen had been in poor health recently, but none of us were prepared for this news.

"Maureen Chaplin exhibited considerable bravery and spirit in her personal battle against mesothelioma.

"Despite her illness, she threw herself into a programme of civic duties which much younger people would find punishing, and she brought a great deal of happiness and cheer to many people by her presence.

"She represented Gateshead with great dignity and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her."