A FORMER council chairman has died at the age of 60 after losing her long battle against cancer.Liberal Democrat Anni Healey, a member of Suffolk Coastal District Council for Woodbridge Farlingaye ward since 1991, was described by her colleagues as vibrant, full of enthusiasm and passionate about planning.

A FORMER council chairman has died at the age of 60 after losing her long battle against cancer.

Liberal Democrat Anni Healey, a member of Suffolk Coastal District Council for Woodbridge Farlingaye ward since 1991, was described by her colleagues as vibrant, full of enthusiasm and passionate about planning.

She was chairman of the council between 1997 and 1998 and was a long term and very knowledgeable member of the council's planning committee and development control sub-committees.

Mrs Healey, who was also a town councillor, and worked as a social worker for 20 years, was heavily involved in a number of campaigns to safeguard Woodbridge and its heritage and ensure it was developed sensitively.

She always took up causes on behalf of residents and worked tirelessly for the people of the town.

Her death will be marked by a minute's silence at the next full meeting of the district council on Thursday September 23. Her funeral is due to be held at St Mary's Church, Woodbridge, earlier in the day at 1pm.

"Anni's death is a sad loss for this council where she had proved to be a valuable member and a good representative of the people of Woodbridge," said Suffolk Coastal leader Ray Herring.

"However, our feelings cannot match those of her family and friends and at this time our thoughts are clearly now with those closest to her and on behalf of everyone at the council I would like to pass on my sincere condolences to them."

Christine Block, leader of the Liberal Democrats Group, said: "I cannot believe that we have lost such a vibrant person – so full of life and enthusiasm.

"She was passionate about planning and always deeply committed to achieving the best for Woodbridge and Suffolk Coastal. She was an inspiration to all of us and we shall miss her greatly."

The family has indicated that flowers can be sent to her funeral or donations made to St Elizabeth Hospice c/o Button's Funeral Directors, Woodbridge.

A notice of council by-election to fill the vacancy caused by Mrs Healely's death will be formally announced following her funeral.