THE FUNERAL of a former Weston-super-Mare mayor will take place tomorrow (Dec 31).

Councillor Astra Brand died on December 13 after suffering poor health for several years.

She became ill in 1996 with heart problems and had a triple bypass and later suffered kidney problems resulting in her requiring dialysis from 2007.

Mrs Brand died aged 65, leaving behind her husband Arthur, daughter Emma, 36, and two granddaughters.

A funeral will take place at St Martin’s Church, on December 31, at 12.30pm.

Mrs Brand was elected at the May 2003 local elections, as ward member for Weston-super-Mare Milton and the Old Worle area.

She served on the council up until the May 2007 local elections, during which time she was a member of West Area Committee and the Licensing Committee.

Mrs Brand was also a member of the Children and Young People's Policy and Scrutiny Panel and in her spare time she was a great supporter of the Children's Hospice South West.

Mrs Brand, who was born in Hull, also served as a town councillor for Weston-super-Mare and was Town Mayor in 2004.

She was also a member of the youth offending team, and the fire authority.

Mr Brand said: “Astra became involved in politics because she wanted to do something for the town.

“She had such a wonderful time as mayor, meeting everyone.”

North Somerset Council spokesman Nick Yates said: “We offer our sincerest condolences to Astra's husband, Arthur, as well as their family and friends.”