A WALTON parish councillor who devoted her life to helping others has been praised by family, friends and colleagues.

Dorothy Sowerby has died at the age of 81 after she was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.

Mrs Sowerby first moved to Walton with her family in 1954 from Worlsey.

She had met her husband Clifford during the Second World War and he went on to become the first lay preacher of St John's Church.

Mrs Sowerby became a Samaritan, getting a telephone installed in her bedroom in the 1960s so people needing help could call her during the night.

She became a member of Walton Parish Council 22 years ago and was on the planning and bus committee where she fought to prevent the reduction of routes in rural areas.

Chris Chadwick, of the parish council, said: "Clr Sowerby assisted many parishioners in local matters with enthusiasm and determination. The parish council will miss her."

Mrs Sowerby also worked avidly for Save the Children in Stockton Heath, was a committed member of St John's Church and acted as secretary of the parochial church council for more than 20 years as well as being Assistant Sunday School attendant. She was also very active in the Mother's Union.

Her son Graham said: "She was always an active person and liked to help other people. That was her main interest in life. She never condemned anyone but was a peacemaker."

Her funeral was packed with people who knew her and who she had helped.

Mr Sowerby would like to thank the staff of Bridge House in Riverside Nursing Home who looked after his mum so well when she became ill.