FORMER Bournemouth councillor Harry Cutler has died at the age of 86.

Mr Cutler, who was first elected to the former County Borough Council as councillor for Moordown South in May 1966, passed away at his care home on Tuesday after suffering with a chest infection.

The veteran politician, who switched from the Labour party to the Conservatives during his career, enjoyed four periods of service, also representing Kinson South and Boscombe West, before leaving his last role in May 2003.

Awarded an MBE by the Queen for his charity and community work, he held the cabinet portfolio for Developing Communities and Tackling Crime following the introduction of the council’s new political structure in 2002.

Mr Cutler represented the council on external bodies including the Citizens’ Advice Bureau and the governing body of King’s Park Primary School.

Cllr John Beesley, leader of Bournemouth council, offered his condolences to Mr Cutler’s family and paid tribute to the work he did for the town, particularly in Boscombe.

“Harry was an inspirational man in every sense and will be sorely missed,” he added.

A thanksgiving for Mr Cutler’s life will be held at 2pm at Boscombe’s Salvation Army hall, Palmerston Road, on Friday, November 21.