Merton Russell-Cotes

During his Mayoralty, Meyrick Park, two free libraries, and the first two schools of art in the borough were opened.

Russell-Cotes was elected to the Board of Commissioners in 1883 and fought hard to enhance the town's reputation as a health resort.

He called for a direct railway link from Brockenhurst to Bournemouth to avoid having to change trains at Ringwood.

When Undercliff Drive opened in 1907, it was announced that Annie and Merton wanted to give their recently completed home, East Cliff Hall, and its contents to the people of Bournemouth.

He was a friend of the actor, Sir Henry Irving, who stayed with him on several occasions.