Jeff Bartley, an environmental officer, died on Monday following a short illness

A former officer at Brent Council who tragically died earlier this week has been described as an “inspirational, unassuming and deeply committed” man by his colleagues and those he tried to help.

Jeff Bartley, environmental projects and policy officer, died on Monday, November 12, after a short illness.

Following his death community groups, colleagues and residents have all paid tribute to Mr Bartley.

Martin Francis, a member of Brent’s Green Party described him as “unfailingly kind.”

He added: “In his understated way he was passionately committed to the environmental cause.

“It was a pleasure to work with him, he was a good man who will be greatly missed.”

Among the projects Mr Bartley worked on included the Fair-Trade Network, Schools Climate Conference and Brent Climate Change Pledge.

The Friends of Eton Grove Park, (FEGP), who are campaigning for a better and greener Queensbury, said: “On behalf of everyone here, we would like to express our most sincere and heartfelt condolences. We are extremely grateful for all that he did for us.”

Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of Brent Council added: “Jeff was an honest, decent and hardworking man who will be sorely missed.

“He was committed to fighting climate change, and his work on the environment and fair-trade was a huge asset to Brent. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this time.”

In addition Mr Bartley also worked closely with the Transition Town in Willesden.

Cllr Ann Hunter, a liberal democrat councillor for the Willesden Green ward, said: “He was such a lovely person and so easy to work with, whether facilitating a round table public discussion on the environment, or chairing the Schools Climate Change Conference group, he was always the same - utterly unflappable, fair, dedicated and kind.”

Cllr Paul Lorber, leader of the Liberal Democrats group, who worked with Mr Bartley on the Brent Climate Change Pledge, described him as an ‘inspirational leader’.

He said: “Jeff’s influence has been felt throughout the council and indeed the borough. I have been struck by the sheer number of council officers and fellow councillors who have spoken to me about Jeff in the last few days.

“The common themes have been memories of how Jeff was such a pleasant and stimulating person to spend time with.”

Mr Bartley’s funeral will be held on Monday November 26 at 12:20 pm at Putney Vale Crematorium, in Stag Lane, SW15 3DZ.

Brent Transport Service will be providing a bus from Brent House to the crematorium, email Neil.Luscombe@brent.gov.uk by November 21 if you wish to attend.

Jeff’s preference is not to have flowers but a donation to the Lymphoma Association is suggested either by cheque or by visiting www.lymphomas.org.uk