TRIBUTES to Dot Pitts, the Deputy Mayoress of Douglas, have flooded in following her death this morning.

The Mayor of Douglas, Councillor Ritchie McNicholl JP, described her as a "remarkable woman".

He said: "She brought practical common sense combined with wisdom to her role as councillor.

"As Mayor she reinvigorated and redefined the post raising more than £30,000 for local causes and reaching out to all sectors of the community through her many mayoral engagements - into which she always injected a sense of fun and originality.

"Never once did her failing health compromise her selfless dedication to her council and mayoral duties alongside her husband, Councillor Stephen Pitts, or to her role as wife, mother and grandmother.

"I am proud to have known Dot as a friend and fellow council member and I extend my sincere condolences to her family."

Dot was a member of the council from April 2004 to April 2008 and Mayor of Douglas for the 2009-2009 municipal year.

Council Leader David Christian JP said: "I was greatly saddened to learn of the death of Dot Pitts. I was privileged to have known her as a colleague and friend. During her year as Mayor she not only succeeded in raising the profile of the council and the office of mayor but also of the Borough of Douglas.

"Her unfailing commitment to her responsibilities as a councillor and mayor, her tireless support of local charities and her devotion to her family remained undimmed despite her illness. Dot Pitts will be sorely missed and I join with His Worship the Mayor in offering my sincere condolences to her family."

Earlier today south Douglas MHK David Cretney described Dot as "truly inspirational".

She died this morning at the Isle of Man Hospice after a long illness with bowel cancer. 

Also see: Douglas MHK pays tribute to former Mayor of Douglas
              Deputy Mayoress dies

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