TRIBUTES have been paid to Bolton councillor Christine Wild.

The Westhoughton North and Chew Moor councillor's tragic death was announced on Monday.

The Bolton Conservatives paid tribute to her on social media.

She was lead councillor for children's services.

She leaves her husband and fellow councillor Paul Wild, who represents Astley Bridge.

The Bolton News:

Her death has prompted an outcrying of support from council colleagues across Bolton.

Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said: “Christine and I have been friends for over 35 years, through thick and thin. She was the sister I never had.

“I will miss her guidance, her friendship, and her naughty sense of humour. It was a privilege to call her my friend.

“Christine gave her best to everything she did. She worked tirelessly as a governor at Sharples Secondary School and supported the school for over 30 years.

“She represented her area of Westhoughton as a councillor, with the same enthusiasm and commitment on the first day as the last.

“It is true to say you never miss things till they are gone, and Christine will be really missed.”

Cllr Sean Hornby said: "Christine has been a very good and respected member of the Council representing Westhoughton and Chew Moor. 

"It has been a pleasure and a honour to work with her and consider her a friend and my thoughts and prayers go out to her husband Cllr Paul Wild and the rest of the family. Bolton has lost a excellent servant to the people of the town."

In a post on Facebook, Cllr Martyn Cox said: "A bad few weeks just got worse, quite suddenly my best friend on the council and colleague for 11 years Christine Wild suddenly passed away today.

"Christine was an exceptional person I just can’t say enough good things about her, calm caring tough and fun to be with.

"She kept me sane and was one of the wisest people I knew and the first person I would go to for help and advice. Everyone who knew her will miss her so much, our love goes to her dear husband Paul Wild."

Farnworth representative Cllr Maureen Flitcroft added: "Such a shock to hear of the passing today of Councillor Christine Wild.

"Sincere condolences to her husband Councillor Paul Wild. A true Lady."