TRIBUTES have been paid to two respected public figures.

Former Hartlepool mayor Muriel Doyle died, aged 75, on Thursday, after an illness.

Hartlepool-born Councillor Doyle first became interested in politics in 1964, and quickly gained a reputation as a great campaigner for the Labour Party at elections.

After a long spell in local politics she became mayor in 1997.

She demonstrated her care for others by raising thousands of pounds for the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Coun Doyle was given the title of Honorary Alderman for dedicating much of her life to the welfare of others.

A civic funeral will be held this morning, in St Cuthbert's, Hartlepool.

Council leader Arthur Preece said: "Muriel will always be remembered as one of the most likeable people I have known here."

Respects have also been paid to one of Stockton's longest-serving public figures, Sir Maurice Sutherland, who has died at the age of 85.

Sir Maurice, from Yarm, began his career in local government politics in 1957.

He became leader of the council and mayor of the former Teesside County Borough Council, and went on to lead Cleveland County Council and to serve on Stockton Borough Council.

He was made an alderman and knighted in 1976, He also received an honorary masters of law degree from the University of Teesside.

Stockton Borough Council leader Bob Gibson said he would be remembered as someone with deep commitment to his party and community.