A CENTRAL figure in the Workers' Education Association (WEA) has died aged 63.

Valerie Portass had been secretary of the Darlington WEA since 1975.

In her role she organised courses for the association, at Bennett House in the town, and booked tutors to run the programmes.

She was also involved in the Cleveland Family History Group, which helped people to trace their family trees.

Mrs Portass, of Hogarth Court, was co-author of two books about history.

Her work was reported in The Northern Echo.

Friend and historian George Flynn said: "She will be sorely missed. Not just for her work with the WEA but also for her involvement with other societies around the town.

"I don't know how she managed to pack so much into a day."

A service will be held for Mrs Portass at Holy Trinity in Darlington, on Thursday at 2.30pm.

A private cremation will follow. Flowers should be sent to Seaton Leng and Son, Bondgate, Darlington.