'Fulwell has lost a true champion' - Sunderland pays tribute to Margaret Beck after death following coronavirus diagnosis

Margaret Beck served Sunderland’s Fulwell ward between 2015 and 2019, when she retired from her work.

And on Friday, March 27 it was confirmed that she had died in hospital following a brave fight, after coming down with coronavirus.

MP for Sunderland Central Julie Elliott and Sunderland City Council leader Graeme Miller were among those paying tribute to Margaret, with dozens of members of the Wearside community also coming forward to share their condolences.

Mrs Beck, a governor at Seaburn Dene Primary School in the city, was remembered as a fierce advocate and a real community champion.

Here are your messages from the Sunderland Echo Facebook page:

Angela Smith: “We are all devastated to lose our lovely neighbour Margaret to this dreadful virus. She was a lovely lady who tirelessly fought for what was right and did so much in the local community.”

Janice Leach: “She was a valued volunteer who carried her passion for people with her. She will be sadly missed. Condolences to all her family.”

Rosie Parker: “Margaret had a heart of gold and was an amazing woman who I am lucky to have known.”

Lisa Scott: “Such extremely sad news. RIP my beautiful, wonderful and funny friend.”

John Semple: “Fulwell has lost a true champion and we have lost a dear friend.”

Jill Fletcher: “Amazing lady so proud to have known her RIP Margaret.”

Neil Macknight: “Margaret was a lovely lady with a wonderful social conscience.”

Maureen Ridley: “I’m absolutely devastated at this sad news that I’ve lost a very good friend who I only have amazing memories of.”

Laura Beston: “RIP to a great woman.”

Peter Young: “Very sad - a big loss to the Fulwell community as well as her family and friends.”

Adrienne Dickson: “Can’t thank Margaret enough for her support of the businesses and community groups of Fulwell.”

Elsie Hayden: “You did so much for Fulwell.”