A POOLE councillor has announced that he intends to call time on more than 20 years as an elected representative next year.

Councillor Mike Brooke first stood to represent Broadstone when his wife Dame Annette Brooke was elected as MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole.

The Liberal Democrat has continued to represent residents, with successful campaigns to protect the crematorium roundabout and work on the Broadstone Neighbourhood Plan.

On his decision to retire and not stand for election in May next year, Cllr Brooke said: “It has been a privilege to serve Broadstone’s residents throughout my time as a councillor and would like to say ‘thank-you’ to them for their support.

“I have lost count of all the casework that has passed through my hands, but the wide variety of issues has widened both my experience and understanding of a councillor’s responsibilities.

“I intend to continue my involvement in the community, health permitting, so I won’t disappear entirely.”