I'm still a little dazed this evening after hearing the sad, sad news that my colleague and friend Chris Dunlop died yesterday. Chris was a councillor for Nonsuch ward and worked really hard as the sole Conservative representative, tackling issues for all constituents. He was always keen to help residents and colleagues whenever he could.His particular interest was education. He sat on a few committees looking at standards across the borough and was passionate about his role as a governor through some difficult times at Overton Grange. Music for young people was a particular key issue for him as he campaigned for a suitable venue for schools' orchestras to play in Sutton. In his ward, he campaigned to keep decent leisure facilities in the west of the borough and recently worked closely with Philippa Stroud to set up the Friends of Cuddington Park.
The smile in his council portrait photo is true to his personality, a jovial man who would make time for people, look for the good in people but a straight speaker. His work as an IT network specialist, took him around the country. He fitted in his Council work as best as he could as well as a home life with his wife Michelle, and children, Amelia and Harry.
Chris, the shock of your untimely passing will go, but I'll miss you; the memories will remain.
4 comments:
Paul
I want to express my condolences publicly via your blog on the passing Of Chris.
I sat next to him during the last full councils debate on Cheam Leisure centre where he proposed and summed up the motion.He turned to me after he had sat down and expressed confidence that by keeping that issue in the public domain it would be very hard for the majority group to make a wrong move.
So his last public act was one for which he was elected ,that of good effective opposition.
In all honesty i never heard Chris say a bad word about anyone which as we know is unusual in politics and that will be the overriding memory that will stick with me.
A charming,nice family man whose low lyrical tones will be missed.
My thoughts are with Michelle,Amelia and Harry at this sad time.
I echo too both the thoughts of Paul and Tim. Chris was not only a very loyal person, but a friendly and decent one too. I shared a few pints with him over the past 2 years and his straight talking in a very effective way was typical of the man.
Whether or not an individual has any religious beliefs, and I find it hard sometimes to accept another life, I'm sure Chris's place in heaven will be assured. The thoughts and sympathies of me and my family go out to Chris's wife and children.
My sincerest condolences to all the Dunlop family and all Chris's friends. A tragedy and very sad news.
Best wishes
Hamish Pollock
Chris was a very decent, civil and pleasant man. All our sympathies go out to his family, friends and colleagues.
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