Councillor loses cancer battle

Ron Allen died after a long battle against cancer

Derby's only independent city councillor, Ron Allen, died on Saturday after a long battle against cancer.

He had campaigned successfully to get rid of controversial speed humps installed in the Boulton ward of the city, where he lived.

In May 2002 he defeated Labour's Hardyal Dhindsa to win a council seat and was re-elected the following year.

His decision to back a Lib-Dem/Tory alliance resulted in Labour losing control of the council.

His death means Labour and the coalition now hold 25 seats each.

Mr Allen's funeral will be held at 1100 GMT on Friday at the Holy Martyr's Church, in Hollis Street.