With great sadness the death was announced of the Mayor of Waltham Forest, Cllr Chris Robbins CBE. He died on April 5th. In a statement released shortly after, the Labour Group on the Borough Council said:
"Chris Robbins was an exceptional Leader, politician, trade unionist, friend and beloved husband, father and grandfather. A giant of our movement, leading the struggle at Wapping and then winning Waltham Forest from coalition in 2010 and revolutionising the political fortunes of the Labour Party in our borough. He always put residents first. He always thought about the impact of our decisions on every resident. He was brave enough to lead, take tough decisions and always believed in our borough and our political group. He was also kind, sensitive and cared deeply for people - that’s why he had no time for political can't or politics for its own sake. He believed in making change for the benefit of everyone and few people can have made more impact than Cllr Chris Robbins CBE, our Mayor, our beloved friend and colleague who will always be loved and missed. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who loved and respected Chris."He had picked Haven House Hospice, as his charity as Mayor. They are accepting donations at justgiving.com/wfmbf.
An online book of remembrance has been set up. Condolences will be passed on to his family. If you would like to leave a message, you can find it here
https://www.theonlinebookcompany.com/OnlineBooks/ChrisRobbinsCBE/Member/Registration
https://www.theonlinebookcompany.com/OnlineBooks/ChrisRobbinsCBE/Member/Registration
The council's 'In memoriam' page is here.
It includes statements from Council Leader Clare Coghill, and Council Chief Executive Martin Esom.
