Richmond Council says it is "deeply saddened" to learn of the death of former Councillor Robin Brown, "who dedicated eight years of service to Richmond upon Thames and the community he cared so deeply about".

A Liberal Democrat councillor, Robin represented Hampton Wick, latterly Hampton Wick & South Teddington, "serving residents with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to public service", says the council.

During his time on the Council, he held a number of senior roles, most notably as lead member for finance and resources, where, according to the authority, "his professionalism, sound judgement and thoughtful approach earned the respect of colleagues from across the political spectrum".

Speaking of his former colleague, the leader of the Council, Councillor Gareth Roberts said: "The borough as a whole owes so much to Robin during his time on the council.

"It is not an overstatement to say that his wisdom and grip on detail were absolutely pivotal to the administration during the eight years that he served.

"Robin brought a wealth of experience from outside frontline politics and he immediately made himself indispensable, taking control of the council's finances and helping us deliver on our manifesto commitments to ensure that this administration's focus would always be on helping those who needed help most.

"To this end he helped ensure the funding was found to reinstate the Council Tax Reduction Scheme for those on benefits, he was instrumental in overseeing the pioneering Richmond Voluntary Fund wherein residents volunteered to pay additional council tax in order to fund projects which largely related to young people in the borough and he oversaw the rebuilding of the council's reserves to ensure that we had a resilient base on which to make financial decisions."

Councillor Roberts added: "Robin was so much more than a numbers man, he instinctively understood what it was we were trying to achieve as a council and what it was that residents both wanted and needed.

"His wise counsel, often offered with excellent humour, made him both a formidable ally and a very good friend.

"Judging by the tributes and warm messages I have received over the last week, I know Robin was both liked and respected across all political parties and none.

"I will miss him more than I can say and I know that sentiment is shared by many colleagues, past and present, and by so many people across the borough and beyond."

Beyond the Council chamber, Robin was a passionate advocate for Richmond's voluntary and community sector.

As a Trustee of the Richmond upon Thames Voluntary Fund, he championed the invaluable work of local charities and community organisations, helping to support projects that improve lives and strengthen communities across the borough.

Richmond Council said: "His commitment to the voluntary sector leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit local residents for years to come.

"Everyone at Richmond Council extends their heartfelt condolences to Robin's family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time."