Council leader dies: tributes flood in

Cllr Brian Leverett, leader of Poole Borough Council died suddenly today.

A council spokesperson said, “It is with immense sadness and deep sorrow that Borough of Poole has to announce the death of Cllr Brian Leverett, Leader of the Council.

“Cllr Leverett was taken ill suddenly earlier today and sadly passed away at Poole Hospital shortly after.”

The Union Flag at the Civic Centre is flying at half mast as a mark of respect.

Cllr Leverett had served as a councillor since 1983 and had been Leader of the Council since 2003.   

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Chris Bulteel, has paid tribute to Cllr Leverett on behalf of all members and staff of Borough of Poole.

Cllr Bulteel said: "Brian was deeply committed to Poole. He gave many years of selfless service to the town and his passing is a very sad loss to Poole. He will be hugely missed by the council and all who knew him, especially those in his local community."

John McBride, Chief Executive of Borough of Poole, said: "Brian was a hugely popular and immensely respected figure within the council. He devoted more than twenty-five years of his life to serving the council and the people of Poole. His passing is a huge loss to Poole and he will be missed by everyone of us at the council who worked with him for many years."

Cllr Don Collier, Deputy Leader of the Council, said: "We are all devastated by Brian's passing. Brian always put the best interests of Poole and its residents first and we will continue this work as he would have wished." 

Cllr Mike Brooke, Leader of Liberal Democrat Group, Borough of Poole, said: "It is a great shock and very sad news. Cllr Leverett dedicated his life to the council and to the town and he will be deeply missed."

Cllr David Gillard, Leader of the Independent Group, Borough of Poole, said: “I have known Brian since childhood and I am extremely sorry to hear this sad news. He will be greatly missed by the town.”

Cllr Leverett was born in Poole and educated at Oakdale and Poole Grammar Schools. He worked in industry as a senior chemist and a college lecturer.