The funeral service takes place today of former senior Hampshire county councillor, Harvey Cole, who has died aged 87.

Mr Cole represented the Winchester Westgate Division for the Liberal Democrats from 1985 to 1989 and 1993 to 2001.

He was also county council leader in 1997. A funeral takes place at Basingstoke Crematorium after he died peacefully at home on March 25.

Mr Cole, of Clifton Hill, Fulflood, maintained an interest in local politics and was chairman of the constituency party for many years.

It was at Mr Cole’s house that a crisis meeting was held in 2006 when MP Mark Oaten was caught in a national newspaper sting that led to him standing down. Party colleagues paid tribute to him.

Cllr Martin Tod, who now represents Westgate, said: “Harvey Cole made a big contribution to Winchester, Hampshire and to the Liberal Democrats

“Harvey was chair of Winchester Liberal Democrats when I was selected as parliamentary candidate and I always appreciated his carefully considered advice

“After he stood down as councillor, he continued to take a strong interest in local affairs - particularly planning. Most recently, He was vocal about his concerns at the number of shops that were previously assumed for Silver Hill and in the local plan.”

Pam Peskett, a former mayor of Winchester and county councillor for Winchester Eastgate, said: “Harvey was well esteemed by the county council for his wide knowledge of planning issues and patient good humour.”