RIP Cllr Pearl Hicks

The death has been announced of long serving town councillor Pearl Hicks.  Pearl had been admitted to hospital following a stroke and a fall resulting in a broken hip.  She died in the early hours of 23rd January.

The Hedge End Town Council web site today carried the following tribute:

"It is with great sadness that the Town Council announces the death of Cllr. Pearl Hicks after a short illness. Pearl had served the community as Councillor for many years and most recently for the St Helen's Ward. Renowned for her strength of character and determination, membership of the Community and Culture Committee, contributing to the Christmas Lights festivities and Chairman of the Council 2007/2008, she will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

As a mark of respect the Town Council offices will close on the morning of Wednesday 1st February 2012 during the funeral service to be conducted at the Wessex Crematorium at 09.30am. Donations in memory of Pearl are to be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society."

In the time I knew Pearl she had been chair of the Town Council and chair of the Community Events and Grants Committee.  She was dedicated to Hedge End and was proud that her late husband Ray had also been chair of the Council.

Frustrated in recent months that failing health was affecting her mobility and ability to keep serving the community to the same standard, she still turned out for the Hedge End Christmas Lights event in December.

Pearl had also been chair of the local Lib Dems, but always put Hedge End before party.   She was one of the Lib Dem members who actively stayed in touch after I resigned from the party.  I will miss Pearl, and so will Hedge End Town Council.

Update Wednesday 1st February - Hedge End Town Clerk Kevin Glyn-Davies delivered an excellent eulogy at Pearl's funeral today.  I hope he has it typed up and published on the Town Council web site, as it gives a far more comprehensive summary of her service to our community.

(Photo credit: Hedge End Town Council)