Richard Bruce, a Labour councillor for Dalston ward from 1982 to 1990, has died.
He was a postman for many years, having famously taken a temporary job while finishing his PhD in anthropology, which he never completed.
His anthropological training carried through into his lifelong interest in social justice and political engagement. Richard was very active in the politics of Dalston, and also on the national executive of the Union of Communication Workers.
He met his wife Leslie while studying, and they moved to New York where she was a professor in the field.
He was a keen cricket fan and a member of Surrey CC, even when in America. Richard and Leslie had just returned from watching England versus the West Indies in Antigua a few days before he had a heart attack.
A Hackney Labour spokesperson said: βHe was a real character and an absolute stalwart of Labour. An individualist, but always had something useful to say and had to be listened to. A great loss.β
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here