FORMER Mayor of Poole and charity co-founder Bill Wretham has died at the age of 89.

Frederick James Bill Wretham, who was known as Bill to members of the community and loved ones, served on both Dorset County Council and the Borough of Poole, before a leave of absence due to ill-health in 2005. The council leader at the time, Brian Leverett, described Bill as a man who was 'respected throughout the council and for his work within the community over very many years.'

He and wife, Peggy, moved from London to Poole in the late 1940s and took over the Perman School of Dancing at Denby Lodge in Fernside Road and the couple were credited with teaching a large number of residents to dance.

Bill was elected to Borough of Poole in May 1983 as a Conservative councillor to represent the Poole Town ward and was portfolio holder for housing and social inclusion, before stepping down from the Cabinet to be replaced by Cllr Mike White.

He also served the town of Sheriff of Poole from 1998 to 1999 and Mayor during the Millennium from 1999 to 2000. Bill also co-founded the charity, Age Concern Poole, with Mrs Doris Webster, to help older people in the community. Bill was also a member of the committee of Dorset Marriage Guidance Council and worked for five years as a national coach of the British Sub Aqua Club, and was the former president of Bournemouth and Poole Sub Aqua Club.

Bill's wife, Peggy, died in July 2006 at Delapre House retirement home in Magna Road with her husband at her side aged 92.

His funeral takes place at Poole Crematorium on Friday, January 16 at 11.30am with those attending asked to wear a splash of colour to reflect Bill's bright and colourful personality. Donations will go to Age Concern Poole.