Megan Cockle, wife of mayor Bob Cockle, died at their home in Bury St Edmunds on Thursday, following an illness.

Cllr Mark Ereira-Guyer, who is fellow Labour and ward member with Cllr Cockle on the St Olaves ward, said: "Bob is a dear friend of mine and has been for nearly 15 years.

"My heart goes out to him ay this very sad time.

"Megan was a really sparkling character, really warm and she supported Bob so much in everything she did.

"She was a thoroughly wonderful woman and will be sorely missed by her family, friends and everyone who knew her."

Mrs Cockle, who was 70, leaves husband Bob, two daughters Sonia and Alison, and three grandchildren.

Her funeral will take place at West Suffolk Crematorium at 11.15am on Monday, September 8.

The family has asked for family flowers only and that any donations be made payable to St Nicholas' Hospice, care of Armstrongs Funeral Service at 43 St Andrew's Street North, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1TH.