A CIVIC church service has been postponed following the death of a city’s mayoress.

Sunderland mayoress Janice Emerson died following a short illness, it was announced today (Tuesday, July 12).

The Mayor's Civic Church Service, planned for Sunday July 17 at the local parish church of Mayor Councillor Alan Emerson, St Paul's in Ryhope Street North, will now be held in the Autumn.

Invited guests including the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear Susan Winfield, High Sheriff of Tyne and Wear John Mowbray, representatives from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Services and the mayoral charities have all been informed of the sad news.

Sunderland City Council leader, Cllr Paul Watson said: “On behalf of his colleagues and of the people of Sunderland, I would like to express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Mayor, Councillor Alan Emerson, for the sad loss of his wife and Mayoress, Janice.

“Our thoughts are with him and his family at this sad time.

“I’m sure everyone will understand Councillor Emerson will now take compassionate leave from his official duties as Mayor.”

“The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Doris MacKnight, and the City’s Aldermen will assume some of his official duties until he feels able to return.”