TRIBUTES have been paid by council leaders to a former Mayoress of Dudley who died last month, aged 65.

Michelle Mottram, the wife of former mayor, Councillor Melvyn Mottram, passed away on January 28.

During her time as mayoress in 2012 and 2013, Michelle, joined Melvyn in working tirelessly to promote the borough.

The pair also raised more than £25,000 for their chosen charities - Dudley Stroke Association and Diabetes UK, Stourbridge, Dudley and District support group.

Civic dignitaries, as well as Michelle’s friends and family, will attend her funeral which takes place at Christ Church in Coseley on Friday (February 27), followed by a service at Gornal Crematorium.

Current mayor, Councillor Margaret Aston, said: “Michelle was a wonderful person and a real ambassador for the Dudley borough.

“As mayoress she devoted her year to supporting the work of the mayor and is an inspiration to us all.

“We are all deeply saddened by her death, and I will be joining many others to pay my respects to her at the funeral on Friday.”

A constant presence at hundreds of civic events, Michelle dedicated her year to encouraging people to give to charity and championing the voluntary sector.

Councillor Pete Lowe, Leader of Dudley Council, said: “We were extremely shocked to hear of the passing of Michelle Mottram, who represented Dudley brilliantly during her time as mayoress.

“Many of us who know Melvyn know of the pain he is currently going through, but he has told me he is grateful for the messages of good will and support that he has received.”