FORMER Christchurch and Dorset councillor, Peter Staples, has died at the age of 89.

Described by his family as an out-going, people person, Peter looked to support others as much as possible.

Born in Portsmouth in 1928, Peter's education was affected by the second world war, seeing the impact of The Blitz first hand.

However, he went on to study at evening school in Bath and became a marine engineer.

Peter met his wife of 63 years, Moreen, in Portsmouth while she was visiting the seaside city on holiday.

Qualifications earned him work which took the couple up to Sheffield.

After four years in the steel city inspecting the metal production for ships, Peter returned to the south coast, initially to Southampton, where he was a member of Southampton City Council and Hampshire County Council as well as serving as a magistrate.

Through his love and passion for education, Peter was actively involved with the PTA at Regents Park Comprehensive School, playing an instrumental role in getting the swimming pool built at the school.

Having spent 19 years in Southampton serving the people of the city, Peter moved to Christchurch, where he spent the last 34 years.

He continued his work in local government, serving as a councillor of Christchurch Borough Council and Dorset County Council.

He was heavily involved with planning matters, including the Sainsbury's development.

Peter was a keen cricket and football fan, and avid watcher of Strictly Come Dancing.

Living in Mudeford, Peter loved life by the coast and was a popular face to people in the area, always willing to listen to what people had to say and get to know them.

"He was very out-going and chatty, and interested in everything - people especially. He loved living here because everyone around the area is so friendly," Moreen said.

"He threw himself into education and managed to help a lot of people."

Peter is survived through his wife Moreen, daughters Melanie, Karen and Debbie, son Graham, 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Peter's funeral takes place at 2.30pm on Friday December 8, at Bournemouth Crematorium.