THE last link to 'a golden era of local politics' has gone with the news that former Poole mayor Edna Adams has passed away.

She has been remembered for her robust views and the strong, independent spirit she displayed as she served on Poole council between 1970 and 1991.

Edna, 87, ran a poultry business in Canford Magna with her late husband Ivor and one of her trademarks was that she loved to own and drive sporty cars.

A Conservative, she was elected sheriff in 1980 and was mayor in 1982. She also served as a county councillor from 1963.

Former councillor Fred Winwood, said: "I remember her from my early years. She was a strong individual and put her views forward.

"She is probably the last of the Freddie Rowe era councillors.

"There were many characters in those days, something that is lacking these days."

Randolph Meech, a Poole councillor from 1973 to 1996, said: "She always spoke her mind and stuck up for her corner. I always got on with her well. She contributed quite a bit to the town and always brought out the other side of an argument."

Edna championed local causes and battled against what she saw as wasteful council expenditure.

Among targets for her wrath were financial support for the Poole Arts Centre and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

However, she described the decision by the council not to send a wedding gift to Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer as "mean."

Current council leader Cllr Brian Leverett said: "Edna retains a special place in the town's affections.

"In a life largely dedicated to public service she championed the case of the little man and the underdog.

"She was a tireless crusader for whatever she believed to be right. Her sole motivation was fairness and justice. She was loved by all who knew her and she will be very sadly missed."

A funeral service for Edna will take place at Canford Magna parish church on September 3 at 12.30pm. Flowers are welcome at the service, or donations to the Salvation Army with any enquiries through Deric-Scott funeral directors in Boscombe.

First published: August 28