It is with deep shock and sadness that Spelthorne Council announces the death of Cllr Robert Watts, Leader of the Council, who died at his home in Shepperton on Monday 5 October.
Cllr Watts was elected to the Council in May 2011, representing the Shepperton Town ward. Upon election he was given Cabinet responsibility for the Environment where he oversaw a number of projects including the introduction of food waste collections.
In February 2013 he took up the post of Leader of the Council and also served on the Local Plan Working Party, Surrey Waste Partnership and the Surrey Local Committee in Spelthorne.
Prior to entering local politics he enjoyed a successful career in Civil Engineering. He was 64 years old.
Chief Executive of Spelthorne Borough Council, Roberto Tambini, said: “We are all terribly shocked by this sad news. Robert had a passion for politics and an unfaltering desire to improve the lives of the Borough’s residents and the place will be all the poorer without him. I very much enjoyed working with Robert and will miss him greatly.”
Fellow Shepperton Town ward councillor, Robin Sider, said: “I am devastated by this news. Cllr Watts was a great friend and colleague and his untimely death will leave a large void in our ward. He lived to work hard for the community and will be sadly missed by all.”