Tributes paid following the death of former chair of Fabrick [Archived]

On hearing the news, Chris Smith, Thirteen's deputy chief executive who worked with Bob for many years, said:

"Many colleagues, partners and customers of Thirteen will remember Bob's massive contribution to the formation of Erimus Housing and Fabrick, which he chaired. He played a significant role in the initial stock transfer from Middlesbrough Council. He ensured the newly formed organisation focussed on delivering the key promises to tenants, especially around decent homes delivery and tenant involvement. He had a particular interest in regeneration and the opportunity the stock transfer gave to developing new affordable homes in Middlesbrough for the first time in a number of years. He also ensured the relationship with Erimus and the Council was strong and was very much about a partnership approach to improving Middlesbrough – not always the case in stock transfers. He was always ambitious but, above all, pragmatic and realistic - he got things done.

“He leaves a great legacy in Middlesbrough and the wider Tees Valley and will be truly missed.”