TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Mayoress of Horwich who lost her battle with lung cancer.

Vivienne Thomson, who was mayoress in 2010 to 2011, died aged 65, on November 29, in Bolton Hospice.

Her devastated husband, town councillor Ken Thomson, said his wife was his best friend.

He added: “She was lovely and wonderful, but could also be very stubborn sometimes.

“She gave me a reason to live.”

The couple, from Mary Street West, were due to celebrate their 28th wedding anniversary on Monday, December 3.

They first met when they were young children and used to play in fields near their homes in Leicester Avenue and Crown Lane, in Horwich.

Both went on to marry different partners, before marrying each other in 1984.

Mrs Thomson had four children and Cllr Thomson had three.

Together they had another daughter, Kerry, and have 17 grandchildren.

Cllr Thomson said his wife enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren and was a very good darts player.

She took part in the local league in Horwich, playing for Tollbar and Central Club.

He said she used to let him win when they played together.

Cllr Thomson added that Mrs Thomson had been “proud” to represent Horwich as mayoress.

Former Mayor of Bolton and Horwich Barbara Ronson said: “Vivienne was a very brave lady and a gracious Mayoress of Horwich, in spite of the fact that she already had health problems.

“She worked hard to support her husband Ken in his role as mayor and always managed a cheerful smile at their events.”

Mrs Thomson’s funeral is taking place tomorrow, at Overdale East Chapel, at 2.45pm. The family have asked for donations to be made to Bolton Hospice.