TRIBUTES have been paid to South Lakeland District Council’s Coun Brenda Woof who died suddenly at her home in Levens on Monday.

Coun Woof had been in office since May 1996 and was the Liberal Democrat member for the Levens Ward.

She was a Cabinet Member from 2004-2010 and was the portfolio holder for Environment and Sustainabilty.

Coun Brendan Jameson, Leader of the Council, said: “I was very sorry to hear the sad news about Brenda and wish to extend my deepest sympathies and those of all her fellow councillors to her husband Maurice and her family at this difficult time.

“Brenda was elected as a councillor in May 1996 and during her time with SLDC she was incredibly supportive and dedicated to the Liberal Democrat party, and the council.

"She was totally committed to her role as a councillor and a Cabinet member - there were no short cuts with Brenda - she liked to read everything in great detail in her preparation for meetings.

“Brenda was heavily involved with the introduction of the Kerbside Recycling Scheme which began in 2005.

"She was very interested in all aspects of environmental issues such as reducing waste to landfill and was a really good team player who will be sorely missed.”

Lawrence Conway, Chief Executive of SLDC, said: “Coun Woof holds a very special place in the heart of all the officers that worked with her over the years.

"Her determination and support have been the driving force behind many of the fundamental changes that have transformed essential front line services.

“Coun Woof’s attention to detail and ensuring that the needs of our communities were at the heart of the decision making process, will long be treasured and fondly remembered by us all.”

MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale Tim Farron said: “Brenda has been a great friend who I will miss terribly.

“Rosie and and I owe Brenda and Maurice a vast amount.

"Brenda was a wonderful servant to Levens, Heversham and Brigsteer and to the whole of South Lakeland - the fact that we all have doorstep recycling today is thanks to Brenda’s determination, she has made a huge difference.

“She was one of those people who could tell you that you were being daft without it sounding like a criticism.

"It’s such a tragedy for Maurice and the whole of the family that we lost Brenda so young.“