NEWPORT'S mayoress, Peggy Morris, died this morning in St Woolos Hospital, Newport. Mrs Morris and her husband Ron celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on Boxing Day last year.

Mrs Morris, 71, had been a staunch supporter of her husband since he became a Newport councillor in the early 1980s.

Council leader Sir Harry Jones said: "Peggy has been Ron's loyal companion for more than 50 years and has supported him in public life for more than 20 of these. "Peggy was always at Ron's side for public engagements culminating in her position as mayoress this year which has sadly been cut short.

"Peggy was popular with everyone who knew her and will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know her. On behalf of the council, I would like to extend my sincere and deepest sympathy to Ron and family."

The flag at the civic centre was flying at half mast today and will also be lowered on the day of Mrs Morris's funeral.

The couple began their year's term as mayor and mayoress in a ceremony last May and moved into their official residence, the Mansion House.

Mrs Morris, like her husband, was originally from Aberdare. They met when Mr Morris was a professional football player with Crystal Palace and was making a visit home. After marrying in Ebenezer Chapel in Cwmbach, Mr and Mrs Morris lived in London for five years.

When they came to live in Newport they ran a general store and newsagents in Somerton Road.

Mrs Morris canvassed for her husband when he decided to run for the council. Mrs Morris, who leaves a son Gareth, lived with her husband in Victoria Avenue. Mr Morris represents the Beechwood ward. The mayor's duties will be carried out by the deputy mayor.