The Mayor of the Borough of Lambeth, Cllr Mark Bennett, has died of a suspected heart attack aged 43.
Mr Bennett, who passed away in hospital on Tuesday, was first elected to the Council in 2005 and prior to this formed part of the Downing Street communications team as an assistant to Alistair Campbell between 1997 to 2001.
A number of senior figures in politics have been quick to pay tribute to the Labour man. Former Prime Minister, Tony Blair, said: “He was intelligent, immensely hard-working and above all, a warm and generous spirit who was a pleasure to be around”. Meanwhile, Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Innovation & Skills and Streatham MP, Chuka Umunna, said “words cannot do Mark justice.”
A book of condolence will be opened at Lambeth Town Hall.
