Former Hammersmith and Fulham Councillor Josie Wickes has died aged 64 after a long illness.

The flag on Hammersmith Town Hall in King Street was flying at half-mast after Josie Wickes died in the early hours of Saturday, January 17.

She had been a Labour councillor for 16 years until ill health meant she was unable to fight for her seat again in 2006.

Labour councillor for Wormholt and White City Colin Aherne said: "Josie was a real character and noted for her great sense of humour.

"She brought life and vitality to the council chamber and was respected by members of the council from all political persuasions.

"She is a great loss to the community she served, and to her many friends."

Ms Wickes was first elected councillor for Conningham Ward in 1990 and went on to represent Askew Ward in 2002. Cabinet Member for Children's Services Cllr Antony Lillis said: "Josie was elected onto the council on the same day as me in May 1990 and became a close personal friend for the past 19 years.

"We shared a common interest in public service and it was very sad when her medical problems got in the way of that.

"I know I speak for everyone in the council who knew her when I say that she will be very sadly missed."

Ms Wicks had held the posts of deputy whip of the administration from 1990 to 1998 and had also chaired the housing benefit review board and transport sub-committee.

Her funeral service will take place on Monday, February 2, at 3pm at Mortlake Crematorium, Kew Meadow Path, Townmead Road, Richmond.

The cortege will pass by Hammersmith Town Hall at approximately 2.20pm where it will pause for a short time before making its way to Mortlake.