TRIBUTES have been paid to an “inspirational” former leader of Poole Borough Council following his death at the age of 84.

Brian Clements was Liberal Democrat leader of the then Poole Borough Council for 12 years and served as ward councillor for Newton for 30 years until his retirement in 2015.

The husband and father of four died on Tuesday, October 4, and was described by his daughter Lin as “a man of tremendous integrity”.

She told the Echo: “He was a massive part of the community for so many years. He led so very many positive initiatives which made a real impact to local people.

“Dad was absolutely dedicated to his work and put so much effort into everything he did. The way I tended to look at it was that we were happy to share dad with the community.

Bournemouth Echo: Brian ClementsBrian Clements (Image: Newsquest)

“He dedicated so much time, passion and wisdom to make Poole the beautiful place it is, and we really couldn’t be more proud of him.”

Brian Clements first came to Poole in 1966, worked as a senior manager at the Plessey Company (now Siemens) and went on to teach computer engineering at The College.

His work in local government led to many triumphs. One notable success was helping to prevent BP building an artificial island in Poole Bay to extract oil.

He was also involved in setting up the Poole Youth Forum and made sizeable contributions as a local school governor.

Following his death, Cllr Vikki Slade said he was a “great friend and mentor” who “served us all with his heart”.

Sir Robert Syms, MP for Poole, said: “Very sad news, although in different parties I always thought he did his best for Poole when council leader.”

Cllr Millie Earl described Brian as an “inspirational community leader and amazing chap”, while Cllr Judes Butt classed him as a “truly kind man who understood everyone’s point of view”.

Harriet Stewart-Jones from Friends of Turner’s Nursery said: “In 2010, when a group of residents got together to save Turner's Nursery from development, Brian, who was ward councillor, guided us through the tangle of council processes to get permission to plant the orchard.

“Always there to help and support us - he will be greatly missed. We'll plant a tree in his memory.”

On her reaction to the messages of condolence, daughter Lin added: “It’s hugely emotional. He just quietly got on with everything without asking for thanks, so to see now the outpouring of appreciation is really lovely.”

Brian Clements is survived by his children and wife Anna.