Tributes have been paid to a much-loved former Darlington councillor and community champion.
Rachel Mills, who represented the Brinkburn and Faverdale ward, died earlier this week.
She was elected to represent the Conservative Party in 2015 and held the position until May 2023.
Colleagues and fellow councillors have praised her humour, support and “gift for lifting spirits".
The mother-of-three was previously the leader of the Conservative Party Group and Darlington Borough Council cabinet member for adult and social care, helping manage the council’s response and support residents throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
A statement from Darlington Conservatives read: “Our thoughts and sympathies go out to Bob, Bobby, Scarlet and George who have lost a remarkable wife and mother.
“Rachel held a number of roles within the Local Conservatives from volunteer to councillor in Brinkburn and Faverdale ward and Association chairman, her constant focus being what is right for residents rather than the institutions. She had a gift for lifting spirits, with humour and support, even on the hardest days and would support everyone around her to be the best they could.
“Her compassion for others and wisdom were a constant source of comfort and guidance, she was part of our family and will be deeply deeply missed.”
She played a key role in campaigning for former Darlington MP Peter Gibson and former Sedgefield MP Paul Howell.
"From day one Rachel has been a friend, supporter and a listening ear,” said Peter Gibson. “She has been a champion on each and every campaign I've worked on and I could not have wished for better support from a party member, association chairman, or ward councillor.
“She has been taken far too soon and leaves a massive hole in our local political community. I have lost a very dear and loyal friend too. Rachael leaves behind a lovely family who are in my prayers. She will not be forgotten.”
Rachel also worked at the Tees Valley Combined Authority as a policy advisor.
Paying tribute, Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “My immediate thoughts go to her family. Rachel was a wonderful person and we’re all still in shock at her sudden passing. She was kind, thoughtful, liked and respected by everyone who knew her and the kind messages people have been sharing are greatly appreciated.
"She lived a life committed to public service and she leaves us having made a positive difference to our community. We all miss her immensely.”
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