HIS huge extended “family” turned out in force to pay tribute at the funeral of Poole’s council leader.

Highly-respected Cllr Brian Leverett gave 27 years of devoted public service to the town he loved and townspeople responded at a service to remember his life.

St Peter’s Church at Parkstone was packed with civic dignitaries, council staff, friends and residents eager to pay their respects to the man whose life touched theirs in so many ways.

Cllr Leverett, 69, who was Poole born and bred, died suddenly on September 17 after collapsing at the Civic Centre.

Fellow councillors were dressed in their blue and red robes for the civic service and Cllr Leverett’s coffin was draped in his scarlet robe of office.

Paying tribute to her friend and colleague of 27 years, Cllr Ann Stribley described him as a, “true and trusted colleague and a sure friend”.

She spoke of his three passions – his beloved dog Anna, whose life ended at the age of 16 on the same day as her master’s, the town and borough of Poole and his family and friends, which included his membership of Masonic lodges.

“He was passionate about the town and Borough of Poole, which he believed was his true family and which he loved intensely,” she said.

“Becoming leader of Poole Council was the greatest privilege and honour to which he could ever wish to aspire.”

Chief executive John McBride spoke of the affection council staff had for the leader they described as a gentleman, a man of integrity who loved Poole, and of his many achievements.

“In recent years his personal drive to get a new Poole Bridge was crucial to us achieving the strong position we now enjoy,” he said.

The service, attended by a congregation several hundred strong, was conducted by Canon Nigel Lloyd.

Cllr Leverett was buried at Broadstone Cemetery.