HUNDREDS of mourners lined Blackbird Leys Road to pay their respects to former councillor Val Smith this morning.

Mrs Smith died on May 15 after a long battle with cancer.

At her funeral this morning, there were more mourners than the Church of the Holy Family, in Blackbird Leys Roadm could cope with, with almost 100 watching the funeral via video link in a marquee outside.

Council workers closed Blackbird Leys road and Cuddesdon Way, rerouting traffic and buses to avoid the procession.

Among those present were councillors, politicians, friends, family and residents of the Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys estates.

Spontaneous applause broke out as the cortege left the church for a private committal at the Oxford Crematorium.

A wake is taking place this afternoon at the Blackbird Leys Community Centre.