Sir Tony Cunningham, former Labour MP for Workington, said he might never have had a political career had it not been for Joan Minto.

Mrs Minto died last week at the age of 87.

Sir Tony paid tribute to Mrs Minto, who played an important role in the area’s political life.

He said: “She was an absolute pillar of the Labour party: what was most important for Joan was the community that she represented, not the honours and titles.”

Sir Tony said that in 1993, when he stood to be selected as Labour candidate for the EU elections, he performed poorly at hustings in Workington. He was uncertain whether to attend further hustings in Carlisle and Kendal and it was Mrs Minto who convinced him.

He said: “She said: ‘Tony, not only you’re going to Carlisle, but I’m coming with you, we’ll make sure you are the candidate.’

“I performed well in Carlisle and Kendal, I got the nomination and that was the start of my political career. It might never have happened without Joan – that was a pivotal point.

“It was Joan’s backing and support which was always there to make a difference.”

Allerdale mayor Hilary Harrington worked with Mrs Minto in the past. She said: “She was a real community councillor and did a lot of hard work across the area. She was very pleasant and caring, a lovely lady. Her heart was in Workington and her own ward, and she will be a big miss to the community.”

Marion Fitzgerald, leader of Allerdale council, said: “Everyone at Allerdale Borough Council was saddened to learn about the death of former councillor, mayor and alderwoman Joan Minto.

“I did not know Joan personally but her many years of service to the town and district are well-known to many people.

“It is rare in this day and age to find someone so dedicated to supporting their community and we thank Joan for her many years of service and offer sincere condolences to her family and friends.”