TRIBUTES have been paid to ‘honourable, tenacious, intelligent and charming’ Della Jones – a North Dorset stalwart and Honorary Alderman – who has passed away.

Della was first elected to represent the Lower Winterborne ward on North Distrct District Council in 1974, the start of more than four decades of service to the community.

She took on various roles at the council, including being made chair in 1999, and was made an MBE in 1987 for services to tourism and the community.

Dorset Council chair, Cllr Val Pothecary, paid tribute to Della on behalf of the authority.

“As a Councillor Della was a dedicated servant to her local community – the wider North Dorset area and throughout the county,” she said.

“She was honourable, tenacious, intelligent, and charming, while her nominated chairman’s charity was always Cancer Research, of which she was the Dorset Patron.”

In 2011, after 45 years on NDDC and 21 years as a county councillor, Della stood down amid concerns about the health of her beloved husband, David, and she was appointed as an Honourary Alderman.

“After more than 65 years of marriage to David – her most devoted supporter – she found herself alone when David died in 2016,” Cllr Pothecary said.

“Since that time, Della continued to support her charities with passion and commitment, while enjoying the warmth of her family, community, and many friends.

“I feel very fortunate to have been counted among those friends. She was an inspiration to many, a warm human being, and a devoted family woman.

“Rest in Peace dear Della, and thank you for a job well done.”