TRIBUTES have been paid to a former leader of Harlow Council, who has passed away.

Tom Farr, a long standing member of the Labour Party, died on Tuesday 4th March.

Tom was a Councillor from the 1960s to his resignation in 1990. He was the second Chair of the Council in 1975 and a very successful leader of the Council throughout the 1980s.

He was devoted to having a successful Playhouse and believed in the Council house building programme, chairing the Housing committee.

He served on the Harlow Development corporation until it was wound up in 1980.

He leaves Iris and his two surviving children Sue and Joanne. At Tom’s request there is to be no planned funeral.

Former colleague Mike Danvers said
“Tom was a self made man who devoted a whole chunk of his life to serving the Harlow community. He was very proud of the fact that from his humble background of a secondary modern education he had on merit worked his way forward .

He was the longest serving Leader of Harlow Council. Tom followed Harlow’s future to the very end”

Harlow Labour Leader James Griggs said “Harlow has lost an outstanding public servant, Tom Farr is a name that will live long in the history of Harlow and Harlow Labour. On behalf of Harlow Labour Party I offer sincere condolences to his family.”

Harlow MP Chris Vince paid tribute to Mr Farr. Mr Vince said: “When I first became active in Harlow Labour Party, Tom was a great source of advice and encouragement.

I’m deeply saddened to hear of his death and the send my condolences to his family.”

Former Harlow MP Bill Rammell has also paid tribute to Tom.

Bill Rammell, former MP for Harlow, said: ”I’m very sad that Tom Farr has died. Tom was a huge servant to Harlow and was my leader when I became a local councillor.

Tom was leader of Harlow Council for nine years, a herculean feat.

He led Harlow Council from the front and delivered nationally recognised quality council services.

He also led the Harlow Primary Care Trust with distinction. He was a true public servant who will be sorely missed. My heart goes out to Iris and his family.”