A councillor who represented people in Sutton for 20 years described has died aged 65.

Mike Woolley was a Labour councillor for Wallington North from 1974 to 1978 and for Wandle Valley from 1978 to 1994 but died on May 20 after suffering from cancer.

Mr Woolley was Sutton Labour Group's leader from 1993 to 1994 and deputy leader from 1986 to 1983.

His successor as Labour leader, former councillor Charlie Mansell, said: "Mike had integrity and strong Labour values but also combined it with common-sense and practicality.

"He fought for  better investment for schools in the north of the borough and worked hard with local residents in getting the right deal for developing the Wandle Valley Hospital site for housing.

His long term campaigning from 20 years ago means the vast Beddington Farmlands site will eventually be part of the Wandle Valley Country Park later this decade.

"He was a great inspiration to me when I first became a Councillor and will be sadly missed by many.Our thoughts go to his wife Birgit Woolley at this time."

Mr Woolley's funeral will be held at Worthing Crematorium on Friday, June 7.