Former Councillor Anne Woodward died suddenly on Saturday 10th July at the age of 83.

The last Mayoress of the Borough of Twickenham, Mrs Woodward served as a councillor for 37 years in all, including Heathfield Ward (1964 - 71 and 1974 -86) and Hampton Ward (1998 - 2002).

The funeral is on the 23 July at St Francis de Sales Church, Wellington Road in Hampton Hill at 10am. All are welcome. There is a reception following the service, at York House in Twickenham.

Cllr Geoffrey Samuel, who first met Anne in 1957, writes:

Anne and her husband ("Woody") came to Twickenham in the early 1950s and immediately involved themselves in local affairs. Woody was soon elected as a Twickenham Councillor and Anne was a prominent member of the Conservative Party.

In 1964 Woody became the last Mayor of the Municipal Borough of Twickenham and, as Mayoress, Anne attended every one of the monthly Council meetings and over 500 Mayoral engagements. She performed the role to perfection, admirable in dealing with people and a superb hostess.

She was a founder member of the 'new' Council and served for twenty three years. A front-bencher, she was at various times Chairman of the Housing Committee and Chairman of the Amenities Committee. A respected and popular councillor, she earned the affection and respect of officers and colleagues alike. She welcomed everyone - irrespective of party. She was also actively involved in countless local groups and societies and was for many years a Magistrate serving on the Richmond Bench..

For many years Anne was Head of a large Junior School in Ealing but - typically - gave it up to look after Woody when he suffered his first debilitating stroke. Her care was remarkable - and successful as Woody made an almost full recovery and enjoyed good quality of life until his death over twenty years ago.

In recent years she devoted the same care to former Council Leader Harry Hall and her daily visits were the highlight of his life. She cared too for her daughter Mairin and gave her support when it was needed most.

Anne lived life to the full. Trips and visits, at least three cruises and several holidays each year and a constant involvement in local politics. But most of all she had time for her friends - she had a gift for friendship.

The suddenness of her death is a shock to us all but it means that we can remember her as she would wish to be remembered - lively, witty, attractive and full of fun.

Monday, July 12, 2004

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