IT IS with sadness that I felt the need to try to ensure that York residents were aware of the recent untimely death of Bob Edwards, who moved to Cumbria from York in 2008, where he managed the Oxfam shop in Cockermouth and continued to actively campaign for green causes.

Among the many things Bob did in York was being a founder member of York Natural Environment Trust, the Friends of St Nicolas’ Fields and the Friends of Rawcliffe Meadows, along with serving as a ward councillor for Hull Road in York, where he lived for many years. He had also worked in the finance team at York CVS from 2003 – 2008, prior to his move to Cumbria.

Bob was tireless in York in campaigning for the environment, along with getting his hands dirty in managing it.

Our thoughts are with Elaine and family at this time. When Bob moved from York he left a big hole in the city; now his death leaves a bigger one in the world.

He was a great believer in "think globally, act locally" and I hope York people will continue to do so in his memory.

Dr Mick Phythian, Treasurer, York Natural Environment Trust, Monkton Road, York.