by Alan Watkins

A former mayor of Gillingham has died.

Harry Blease, who retired from the Royal Navy with the rank of Lt-Commander, passed away Sunday morning at Pembroke House, the Royal Navy Home opposite the former Municipal Buildings where he served the local community.

He is survived by his wife, Joan, and their daughter.

Cllr Steve Kearney (Lib), a former deputy mayor of Medway, said: "You could have called Harry Mr Gillingham. He did so many things for the community. It was people like him that have made Gillingham what it is today.

"Harry was a wonderful, wonderful guy who really cared about the community."

A fuller tribute will appear in Friday’s Medway Messenger.

See also www.medwaymessenger.co.uk - Tales from Gun Wharf.