A former Mayor of Walsall who dedicated much of her life to fundraising for hospice care has been remembered for her lasting impact on patients and families across the borough.

Kath Phillips, who died following complications from leukaemia, spent more than three decades raising more than £30,000 to support palliative and end-of-life care after losing her mother in 1991.

As a councillor, she played a key role in the early discussions that helped shape the development of Walsall Palliative Care Centre, ensuring future generations would have access to specialist end-of-life care closer to home.

During her Mayoral year in 2016/17, Kath, who was married to husband Maurice for 57 years, chose Goscote Hospice as her charity and collected an incredible £32,000 through a range of fundraising events.

From a charity ball, to stalls at community events such as Bloxwich Carnival and sponsored challenges, including a walk on her 70th birthday, she was always looking for new ways to support the cause close to her heart.

Even after her death, grandmother Kath continued to help others, with £575 donated in her memory through collections at her funeral.

Jennie Westley, Kath’s daughter, said: “Mum was small in stature but was bigger than life, she was a such a big character.

“She was known for being such a popular Mayor, and everyone knew her. She was always proud to represent the area she grew up in and to give back to those around her.”

Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager for Walsall Healthcare’s charity Well Wishers, said: “Kath was an incredible supporter of hospice and palliative care in Walsall.

“Her passion, determination and generosity touched so many lives, and the impact of her fundraising will continue to be felt by patients and their families for years to come.

“She dedicated so much of her life to helping others and was a true champion for end-of-life care. We are really grateful for everything she did and for the continued support shown through the donations made in her memory.”