Friends and former colleagues of a popular trade unionist who died suddenly last month have launched a website in memory of the man “who cared more for others than himself”.

Malcolm Campbell, 56, of Sutton, secretary of Croydon Council's 2,000 strong branch of Unison, collapsed at his home in Sutton on April 26.

Former comrades devasted by his death have now established a blog to commemorate his life and positive impact as secretary of the branch for 10 years.

The senior social worker, who also served as president of Croydon Trade Union Council (TUC), was also leading member of the Save Our Schools campaign which is fighting to stop the council turning Haling Manor and Ashburton Community School in Croydon into academies.

A minutes silence was observed for Mr Campbell, who worked for Croydon council for 27 years, at a meeting of the cabinet last Monday.

The blog, entitled We Remember Malcolm Campbell, includes comments from other branch secretaries from across Croydon and pays credit to the man people knew as a “kind, helpful and committed man”.

One message reads: “It’s strange and sad to know that someone who I relied on – just for being there –has gone and that I won’t hear his laughter again, or see the quizzical look on his face again when I launch myself fully clothed into the cold waters of Lulworth Cove, or get us all totally lost on a walk.

“He was a gentle and admirable man –always there for so many of us - and I guess we always assumed he would be with us for the years to come - making us laugh, helping us out, and not minding when we were all being a bit daft at festivals or at conference.”

In one message, Nick Venedi, Lambeth Unison branch secretary, wrote: “I don't want to say that I will miss Malcolm and prefer to say that I will always remember the brave, genuine, kind man who cared more for others than himself."

Another message read: “I am so sad so sad about the loss of Malcolm. He is not just a massive loss to his family and friends but to the trade union movement as a whole."

In an email sent to staff, Jon Rouse, the council's chief executive, described Mr Campbell as "a trusted colleague and friend to many."

Mr Campbell leaves a partner, Jayne.

• Leave your tribute to Mr Campbell in the comments section below.