Scientist and recently-elected New Milton town councillor Charles Baker dies aged 48

POPULAR and “enthusiastic” Cllr Dr Charles Baker has died following a short illness months after joining New Milton Town Council.

Tributes to 48-year-old scientist Charles have poured in since he passed away at Oakhaven Hospice on 5th September following a brain tumour.

Passionate about the local environment and youth, he was elected onto the town council in May as a Liberal Democrat member.

He joined his mother Judith and stepfather Wyn, from Ashley, who are both active in local politics for the Lib Dems.

Charles lived in Hordle with his partner Aileen and their 13-year-old daughter, Alice.

“It was a great shock to all of us when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour,” Aileen said.

“He was enthusiastic about his new role as a councillor and attended every meeting he was able.

“The care at Oakhaven Hospice was wonderful and we have been inundated with tributes and kind messages which show just how highly he was regarded in the community.”

Charles grew up in New Milton where he attended Edinburgh House School, before going to King Edward VI School in Southampton and winning a scholarship to the sixth form.

He then read chemistry and completed a PhD at Nottingham University.

For the past 16 years, he worked for chemical safety testing firm DEKRA in Southampton.

As newly-elected Ballard ward representative, Charles took a keen interest in environmental issues, particularly around Ballard Lake and the water meadows.

An avid sportsman, he was also interested in providing facilities for the town’s youngsters.

Having joined the amenities committee, Charles asked to become a member of both the environmental sustainability (action plan) group and the Fernhill project group.

Town clerk Graham Flexman said: “We were sad to learn of his untimely death.

“Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”

Charles’ sporting passion saw him captain Hordle Cricket Club until it folded, and then go on to play for New Milton. He also played for New Milton Rugby Club.

As well as Aileen and Alice, he leaves two brothers, Ed and Bill, and many friends in the area.

His funeral is being held at Lymington United Reformed Church at 2.30pm on Friday 22nd September.