Tributes paid to former housing board member

Derek Brown

Tributes have been paid to Derek Brown, a former board member for Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) and a local tenants’ champion.

Mr Brown, originally from Yorkshire, died suddenly, last week.

He was initially on the shadow board set up to guide the process to establish RBH. He then became the RBH Board’s inaugural Chair in 2002.

He served for two consecutive terms as a tenant board member, during which time he also served as Vice Chairman, Chairman of the Staffing sub committee and a member of other committees.

His passion for housing issues was also put to good use as Company Secretary at the former Rochdale Federation of Tenants and Residents (RoFTRA) in Newgate and as a member of various other tenant bodies.

Gareth Swarbrick, RBH Chief Executive praised Mr Brown’s contribution. He said: “Derek was a real gentleman, who shared our vision to improve housing services for local people. He worked tirelessly for RBH, not only on the Board, but as an advocate nationally in the housing sector. Our sincere condolences go to his family.”

Current Board member and friend, Peter Brierley, who knew Mr Brown well during his time at RoFTRA said: “Derek has always been active in the community, fighting many a campaign locally. He was one of those people who would take something and see it right through to the end.” 

Because of his experience in Rochdale, Mr Brown was asked to be involved with the formation of another arms-length housing management organisation, Sheffield Homes, where he offered invaluable advice and guidance. 

In his younger days, he served as a qualified chef at a prestigious Golf Club in Scotland. 

He later moved to Rochdale, living in Bentgate, Milnrow. Whilst there, he was involved in fighting against the controversial quarry plans for Milnrow. He later moved to Brotherod, where he died last week. 

He is survived by his two daughters, Karen and Tracey and grandchildren.