Edna Reeve, a member of the local Conservative Party for over 70 years, passed away on 2 January at the age of 95.
Mrs Reeve, who had a career as a professional dancer and then an NHS administrator, lived for most of her long life in Erith with her late husband, Ken. She was an active member of Erith and Crayford Conservatives, and subsequently Bexleyheath and Crayford Tories, and was a regular campaigner, organiser and big supporter of local political and social functions. For many years she served on the Executive Council of the Conservative Association, and was Treasurer of the Erith branch Conservatives. She also hosted many fundraising events at her home.
Rt Hon David Evennett MP paid tribute to Edna: “she was a great friend and a loyal hardworking Conservative activist. She first campaigned for Margaret Roberts (Thatcher) when she was the candidate for Dartford in 1950 and 1951 and remained a huge fan of our former PM.”
“Although not able to be so active in latter years, she continued to take a great interest in local and national politics. I am so grateful for all the help and support that she gave to me over many years. She will be sadly missed by her many friends and family members.”
Mark Brooks, Chairman of the Bexleyheath and Crayford Conservative Association, commented: “She was a real stalwart of both Erith Ward (former Chairman and Treasurer) when it formed the Erith & Crayford Constituency and then latterly Colyers ward (former Treasurer) in Bexleyheath and Crayford.”
“Edna held many a social function and ward meeting at her home near Erith Hospital alongside always making it available as a campaign centre during elections (the tea was always brewing). She was a regular attendee at executives and social events as well as supporting with canvassing and leafleting. She was also on the three-person selection panel in 1982 that chose David Evennett MP as the Parliamentary Candidate in Erith and Crayford!”