FORMER partner at Lester Aldridge, Jonathan Howe, has died at the age of 70.

Born in Poole in 1946 with his twin sister, Rosemary, he attended Castle Court and Poole Grammar schools, and lived in Poole throughout his life.

He qualified as a solicitor whilst with Lester Russell, working for that firm as a conveyancing solicitor for his entire working life as the firm expanded and became Lester Aldridge LLP.

Jon joined Parkstone Yacht Club as a young boy and got the racing bug, continuing to race for many years. He was the epitome of 'it's not the winning but the taking part that matters', with no notable wins on record.

He gave his time and experience freely to a number of organisations including Parkstone Yacht Club where he was a trustee from 2005 and Poole Grammar School where he was a governor for 18 years, including five as chairman. He also sat on a number of committees for the British Marine Federation and was involved with a variety of associations including British Marine Wessex, and North Haven Yacht Club, to whom he provided extensive legal advice. His contributions were always valued as was demonstrated by both the North Haven and Parkstone Yacht clubs granting him honorary life membership.

"Some of his more prominent achievements included playing a key role in the creation of Parkstone Yacht Club's 200 boat marina and in recent years Jon has guided the management in achieving the complicated procedure of diverting the public footpath running through the premises of the new clubhouse needing to be built right over it. Whilst the building project is now well advanced, it is with sadness that he won't see the results of his labour," said Gill.

Jon's assistance in Poole Grammar School gaining Grant Maintained, Foundation and finally Academy Trust status and expansion in size through building a substantial number of new classrooms, was invaluable.

"From an early age Jon had a fascination with steam engines and was a keen supporter of the Swanage Railway as a life member. He was also an avid collector of many items including fossils, Poole Pottery, notably egg cups and historic prints and maps of Dorset.

"He was respected as a serious provider of advice as well as being a generous carer to his friends. He also had a huge sense of humour which, coupled with a very quick thinking mind, provided many hilarious off the cuff moments," said Gill.

Jon 's sudden passing on a charity ride on April 23 came doing what he did so often, helping others.

His funeral was held on May 17 with a memorial service on June 9 at St Peter's Church, Parkstone with donations going to the RNLI and Poole Sailability.

Jon is survived by his wife Gill, sister Rosemary and sons Neil and Jeremy from his first marriage.