Liam lived in Vauxhall with his husband for many years, supporting countless local organisations and initiatives. His cancer diagnosis was made soon after his election, but he always continued to serve the interests of residents and communities across Lambeth who he held in his heart.
Cllr Claire Holland, the leader of Lambeth Council, said: “Liam’s passing is a devastating loss for us all – it is felt deeply by me personally and the whole of the Lambeth Labour group of councillors. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this terrible time. That sadness is also deeply felt at Lambeth Council where Liam was a valued and respected colleague. He will be dearly missed.
“After a lifetime of activism and community work Liam decided to stand as a councillor in 2022 after witnessing what communities went through during the Covid-19 pandemic, and he wanted to play his part in standing up for those in need in Lambeth. As tributes to him flood in, it is clear that Liam was seen as a humble, kind, charming, funny and selfless man who was loved and respected by all of us who were fortunate enough to have spent time with him and known him well.
“More personally, Liam was a massive Eurovision fan, an advocate for our LGBTQ+ community and he loved West Ham United FC, especially Declan Rice (even after he signed for Arsenal), often remarking on his own time playing football and fighting homophobia on the pitches in the 90s. Liam was a trailblazer in his campaigning work for inclusivity in sport and was a pioneer of Stonewall FC.
“Throughout his battle with cancer, Liam never lost his drive and sense of purpose as a councillor and his dedication to live a life of service for others. Becoming a councillor meant a great deal to him, and he embodied the best that anyone could ask for. An unwavering commitment to Vauxhall and Lambeth and our communities, standing up for those in need, and all the while doing it with the charm and humour that endeared him to all who met him. He will be dearly missed by us all.”
During his career Liam had worked across Whitehall at the Departments of Education and Department for Communities & Local Government, and in higher education, demonstrating a passion for supporting our schools, universities and learning, and giving opportunities for all young people.
Following his sad death, arrangements for a by-election in Vauxhall ward will be agreed and announced in due course.
