TRIBUTES have poured in after the death was announced of the much-loved and respected Gary Knott.

Committed christian Gary, who had been battling cancer for some time, was the Chief Executive of the Michael Roberts Charitable Trust and founder of Harlow Foodbank.

He drove it forward and was not afraid to highlight the stark choices left for many people in the town.

Gary was not political but all politicians knew exactly where they stood with Gary.

Gary was the ultimate Good Samaritan and anyone who met him went away knowing they had met the kindest of kind men.

The Leader of Harlow Council has paid tribute to Gary.

Councillor Mark Ingall, Leader of Harlow Council, said: “I was saddened to hear of Gary’s passing. Gary’s presence and commitment to others will be greatly missed within our town. He was everyone’s friend and a servant to those residents of Harlow that were most in need.

“What Gary created with Harlow Foodbank gives hope to many and makes people feel that there are not alone in our town. Gary had a heart of gold and he was a man our town should be proud of. His legacy in Harlow will live on forever. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Harlow MP Robert Halfon said: “Gary Knott was one of the most incredible people I’ve met in my life. In my time as MP for Harlow and Parliamentary Candidate, he dedicated his life to serving the most vulnerable.

He was one of the most extraordinary social justice champions I will ever meet. Harlow will never be the same without him. I wish his family the very best of heart at this difficult time. Although Gary is no longer with us, his memory and his lifetime’s work will remain with us forever. Thank you, Gary, for all you’ve done for Harlow.

Councillor Clive Souter, Chair of Harlow Council, said: “Although I never knew Gary myself I was aware of his valuable work to help others in our town and the deep respect everyone held for him. Gary made a huge impact on the lives of people in Harlow and his commitment and contribution to everyday life in Harlow will be greatly missed. My thoughts at this time are with Gary’s family, his friends and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.”

Labour’s prospective parliamentary candidate for Harlow, Laura McAlpine said: “Impossibly said to hear that Gary Knott has passed away.

He never stopped fighting for the most vulnerable people in our society. Harlow has lost a true hero. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”

We interviewed Gary on a number of occasions. We will add tributes as they come in.

Interview in 2013

Interview in 2019