The former chairman of Disability Croydon Forum has died after a two-year battle with bladder cancer.

Robin Hunter, 69, served on the disability forum for ten years as well as the Croydon Mobility Forum where he worked to highlight key issues surrounding the disabled access across the borough.

Born with Spina Bifida which left him wheelchair bound, Mr Hunter, who grew up in Woodside, died on November 21 from septicaemia, brought on by his cancer.

His sister Diane Lawrence, 54, said: “He was severely disabled, he seemed to suffer from everything but he was dedicated to improving conditions for everyone. He often said to me an able-bodied person just doesn’t see what a disabled person sees in terms of obstacles and potential hazards.”

Mr Hunter moved to Scotland after meeting his wife, but returned to live in Addiscombe for the final ten years of his life, continuing his charity work up until 2009 when his illness became too severe.

He served on the executive committee of Croydon Disability Forum, on its housing sub group, and for the Croydon Wheelchair Service.

Mike McConnell, who worked with Mr Hunter at Croydon Disability Forum and Croydon Mobility Forum, said: “Robin was an excellent example of a disabled person just wishing to lead an independent life and not wishing to be reliant on others.

“Robin did more than this, he became an inspiration to others and was able to demonstrate such grit and determination to keep going ,even when there may have been health, accessibility or culture barriers placed in his way.

“Robin has left an important legacy in highlighting how it is necessary to just keep on lobbying for equalities for disabled people in Croydon.

“There are still fundamental issues to be resolved on Housing and Accessible Transport in the borough.

“We must all continue with these causes, using Robin’s inspiration, to enable independent living and equalities to become a reality in Croydon.”