ONE of Bury Council's top officers has died just weeks after stepping down due to ill health.

Philip Allen (51) only recently retired after 32 years with the authority. He died on Monday after a long battle against cancer.

Proud to be a Bury man, born and bred, he lived in the town all his life and was a keen Shakers supporter. He joined the council in 1974 after leaving Bury Grammar School and worked his way up to become the executive director of environment and development services.

Under his charge, Mr Allen kept council services in-house during the years of Compulsory Competitive Tendering. He also championed the "cleaner, safer, greener" initiative which has led to new playgrounds, Green Flag parks, street care teams and success in North West in Bloom.

He is survived by his wife Susan, mother Marjorie, brother Leslie and sister Elaine. A thanksgiving service will be held at Bury Parish Church on Tuesday at 12.15pm, followed by interment at Bury Cemetery.

Mark Sanders, the council's chief executive, said: "The news of Philip's death has cast a shadow over colleagues and members alike. He was an extremely popular and well respected officer and our condolences are with his wife, his mother and his extended family.

"The greatest tribute I can pay to Philip is to recognise the legacy he leaves behind in our magnificent parks and gardens. He steered through a programme of major improvements and now we have tengreen flag parks, which everyone can enjoy for years to come. His personal vision has transformed the way our green space is used and has brought back civic pride in our local environment.

"We will all remember Philip for his dedication and enthusiasm, but above all for the difference he made to Bury."