A big turnout is expected for the funeral service for former Stevenage mayor Sherma Batson which will take place in Stevenage on Friday.

A long serving councillor, and Stevenage’s first female black mayor, Sherma passed away suddenly on January 8 after collapsing at a soul event in Blackpool.

Following her untimely death aged just 59, tributes poured in to the Comet from friends and family, councillors who had worked with her and the many community groups she supported.

All are welcome to attend the service at 2pm at St Hugh and St John Church in Mobbsbury Way.

Guests are invited to wear something red.

Following the service, a wake will be held at the Ibis Forum Conference and Banqueting suite in the town centre from 4pm. Mrs Batson’s family have requested flowers from the family only, but donations can be made to Mrs Batson’s preferred charities: Stevenage Furniture Recycling Scheme and the Stevenage World Forum.

Stevenage Borough Council has requested people attend by public transport where possible as parking will be limited.