Tributes paid to ‘tireless worker’ and founding chairman of Saxon Weald

Robin Charter, who lived in Pulborough and was the founding chairman of Saxon Weald, recently passed away as a result of heart failure.

He was closely involved with voluntary organisations in the area, including Victim Support and the youth club in Pulborough.

David Standfast, chief executive of Saxon Weald, described Robin as a ‘tireless worker’ since the housing association was founded in 1999.

He added: “Without Robin Saxon Weald would not be the open, friendly, human and professional organisation it is now.

“We owe him a huge debt and will miss him very much.”

After he left the board, Robin continued to work as an ambassador for Saxon Weald, promoting both the company and the need for social housing for people in Sussex and Hampshire.

His death was announced by Brian O’Connell, chairman of Horsham District Council, at the authority’s annual council meeting last Wednesday.

Mr O’Connell said: “The successful organisation that exists today, that has built its 1,000th home, owes a lot to Robin’s leadership.

“He will be hugely missed and our thoughts are with his family.”

Liz Kitchen, who served as leader of HDC from 2001-2009, added: “He helped start Saxon Weald and he was superb. He will be greatly missed.”

Brian Donnelly, who worked with Robin as vice chairman several years ago, added: “He had a wonderful manner and he did take people within the big tent.”

He continued: “The great worry of the residents of Horsham with the new organisation was: ‘Will it give the same great service that Horsham District Council did as the provider?’

“Under Robin and David Standfast this was achieved and we can be proud of that.

“We will all miss him massively.”

Saxon Weald has around 6,000 affordable homes for rent and sale across Horsham and Hampshire, with the majority of its properties in the Horsham district.

Robin is survived by his wife Janet and son George.