HOUSING group Torus has paid tribute to a long-standing board member and 'dedicated supporter' of tenants following her death.

Marlene Newman, who died aged 70 after a long illness, was due to stand down at the organisation's AGM this year.

During her term the St Helens woman played a central role in establishing a 'challenging governance and stewardship' within Torus, which was launched last April after Golden Gates Housing Trust and Helena Partnerships joined forces.

A passionate believer in tenant involvement, Marlene was instrumental in the establishment of Helena's tenant and communities committee (TCC) in 2014.

In her role as TCC chairman she helped ensure tenants were able to express their views and have a say in how the business is run.

Torus chief executive Rob Young said: "We are deeply saddened by the news – I've had the pleasure of knowing and working with Marlene for the last nine years.

"She was a dedicated supporter for tenants and young people and a friend to Helena who made a significant contribution towards helping us continue to make a difference to those who need our help most.

"She was a remarkable and inspirational woman and had such passion for St Helens, its people and communities.

"Marlene will be dearly missed. On behalf of everyone at Torus and Helena, our thoughts are with Marlene's family at this sad time."

Helena chairman Peter Styche and Torus chairman Graham Burgess also jointly paid tribute to Marlene.

They said: "In Marlene we had an amazing supporter for housing and for the town of St Helens.

"She was tirelessly committed to ensuring that young people had the very best opportunity to thrive and we believe that this will be her legacy.

"We have lost a true friend and supporter and our thoughts go out to Marlene's family."