THE family of a former mayor and town councillor have paid tribute to his “fierce independence” and “strong will” in the face of a life-long disability.

Michael Dalton had represented the people of Newton Aycliffe for almost two decades - serving one term as Mayor of Great Aycliffe while providing support to his 92-year-old mother Mary Dalton during her four stints in the position.

The 52-year-old was born with spina bifida and had battled health problems throughout his life.

Following a 12-week stay in hospital, Mr Dalton died on Sunday having returned to the home he shared with his mother in Woodham the previous day.

Speaking on behalf of himself and his mother, Mr Dalton’s brother Jan Dalton, 68, said: “He was fiercely independent and had a very strong will which I think he inherited from the family. We don’t let things get us down - we ride through adversity and that’s what Michael did. It was that independence and strength that brought him through 52 years of very hard living.

“I’m no more proud of Michael than I am of my mother who cared for him for that time and devoted her life to him.”

Mr Dalton was brought up in Richmond where he attended junior and secondary schools despite his disability, according to the wishes of his parents, Holland-born Mary and her late husband Reginald, who wanted to “integrate him in the system”.

At college in Coventry he qualified as an accountant and went on to work as a ledger clerk for Ross Fish. Mr Dalton, who used a wheelchair, took early medical retirement due to his condition and kidney problems.

At the age of 22, he spent time in a care home in Harrogate where he met Julie Fulbrook, whom he married the following year.

The pair, who both suffered from spina bifida, moved to Newton Aycliffe and had 12 years of independent living together - enjoying holidays in the UK and abroad after Mr Dalton passed his driving test.

In 2000 his wife died from cancer and his parents moved to the town to be close to him.

It was also during this time that Mr Dalton won a seat on Great Aycliffe Town Council and served one term as Mayor of Great Ayclffe in 2002.

Mr Dalton, who dedicated time to fundraising, was tipped to take up the role again this year but lost his seat on the council after a straw draw in the local elections in May.

“He really got into the mood of it (local politics) and was happy to be the representative of the community,” added Jan.

He recently become engaged to Sue Ward, who he met at the Harrogate care home 30 years ago.

The pair were planning to marry next year.