Tributes have been paid to a man dubbed 'Mr Romsey' after he died suddenly.

Mark Edgerley was involved in many groups in Romsey, as well as being the town centre manager for a number of years and the chairman of the Romsey Forum.

He was also the chief executive of Marwell Zoo and a columnist in the Echo's sister paper the Romsey Advertiser.

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His death was announced by his family on social media on Saturday, February 3. 

In a tribute on Facebook, Hampshire County Councillor for Romsey Rural, Nick Adams-King, said: “I'm very sad to have heard of the sudden death of Mark Edgerley, chair of the Romsey Forum, Romsey Advertiser columnist and former Romsey town centre manager. Truly awful news.

“Mark's commitment, determination, vision and sheer hard work brought enormous benefit to our town. In his former role he introduced the Sunday craft market to the town and also the antiques fairs. 

“Mark loved Romsey, his commitment to the town was total and his involvement in so many local organisations and events ensured they thrived. He was involved from the early days of Romsey Future, was a stalwart of the Romsey Festival committee and was integral to the success of Romsey Beggars Fair. 

“More than this, Mark was a good friend. He was a kind, decent, principled man. His humour shone through and his mischievous grin as he threw a comment into a conversation to make the debate a little more sparky was legend.

“We had different politics, but that never mattered. We worked alongside one another for many years, for the good of the town and those around us, and Mark's involvement always made the outcome better.

“My thoughts and sincerest condolences are with his family and very many friends.

“Rest in peace Mark, know that you will be remembered with nothing but positivity by very many. Thank you for all you did for Romsey.”