The Local Government Association as set up a tribute page following the death of Lord Bob Kerslake.
Lord Kerslake's family announced his death at the age of 68 on Saturday. He had been diagnosed with cancer.
Announcing the online condolences page, LGA chief executive Mark Lloyd described the former LGA President as 'a true public servant and adviser, mentor and friend to many in local and national government'.
Mr Lloyd continued: 'His commitment to improving our country through its cities, towns and villages – and ultimately enhancing the lives of very many people – will always be remembered. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.'
Lord Kerslake began his local government career at the Greater London Council, going on to serve as chief executive of Hounslow LBC and Sheffield City Council, then permanent secretary at the then-Department for Communities and Local Government from 2010 to 2015.
He was head of the civil service from January 2012 to September 2014 and received a knighthood in the 2005 New Year's Honours list for services to local government.
Just last month, Lord Kerslake received the award for Outstanding Contribution to Local Government at The MJ Achievement Awards.
Editor of The MJ, Heather Jameson, said: ‘We are all deeply saddened at the loss of Lord Bob Kerslake – he was an extraordinary public servant, a tireless cheerleader for the local government and a true champion of local democracy.
‘Despite his huge achievements and many roles, Bob was always generous at sharing his time and his wisdom.
'We will be forever grateful for all he has done for The MJ and the sector.
‘Our thoughts are with his family and friends – Bob will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.’
Lord Kerslake was also president of the Local Government Association (LGA) from 2015 to 2021.
LGA chairman James Jamieson said it was a 'sad passing’ and a 'loss to us all’.
Most recently, Lord Kerslake had been working with the Labour Party as it prepares for the next General Election.
Shadow levelling up secretary Lisa Nandy said he was a 'kind, thoughtful and genuine public servant who cared deeply about people’.
Opposition leader Keir Starmer added: ‘Bob was a talented public servant, utmost professional and a good man.’
Shantanu Rajawat, leader of Hounslow LBC, where Lord Kerslake spent eight years as chief executive, said: ‘We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Lord Kerslake who was a remarkable man, a rare gem and a true public servant.’
The tribute page can be found here.
This article was originally published by The MJ (£).
