Funeral of 'inspirational' Dot Pitts in Douglas

Dot Pitts redefined the role of Douglas' mayor

The funeral of a "truly inspirational" former mayor has taken place in the Isle of Man.

Scores of mourners said farewell to Dot Pitts, a mother-of-four who lost a three-year battle with bowel cancer on Tuesday.

Despite suffering from the disease she managed to raise £30,000 during her mayoral year from 2008 to 2009.

Those attending the funeral, at St George's Church, Douglas, were asked not to wear black.

Mayor Ritchie McNicholl said she was "truly inspirational" and a "driven woman" who raised the profile of the mayor's job.

"She brought practical common sense combined with wisdom to her role as councillor, and as mayor she reinvigorated and redefined the post."

Mrs Pitts leaves husband Stephen, daughters Nicola and Debbie, and sons Stevie and Frankie.