An East Sheen man who spent three decades of his life trying to improve the lives of others has passed away.

John Thompson was an active volunteer, dedicated to making a positive difference in Richmond and strived to provide a voice to all residents, ensuring that they were represented.

John was the chairman of Healthwatch Richmond, an organisation that gathers the views of people about their needs and experiences of the NHS and social care.

He was also the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Richmond Carers Centre and a non-executive director on NHS boards in south west London (including Richmond Primary Care Trust and Croydon University Hospital) for eight years.

In addition, he was the co-chairman of the England Vision Strategy - a coalition of the leading eye health and sight loss organisations and professions delivering a plan for change across the

entire pathway.

Councillor Piers Allen, Cabinet Member for Adults Social Services and Health, mourned the loss.

“We are thankful for John’s contribution and his record of working for the people of London borough of Richmond upon Thames," he said.

"He worked hard to champion the cause of local people, including the most vulnerable and help Richmond be a caring, compassionate borough where people can have their say.

"At this difficult time our sympathies and thoughts are with John’s family, friends and colleagues.”

John passed away in March this year.