A message on the Association’s website reads: “It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we report the recent passing of our management committee member, and secretary, Jim Michael.

“Jim was a founding member of our housing association, and he worked tirelessly for the last 42 years nurturing and driving the organisation towards its vision of shaping thriving communities.

“A very proud and principled man, with strong values around equality and social justice, Jim will be remembered fondly by management committee members and staff alike; and he will live on in our memories through the ‘Jim Michael Award’ which was introduced in 2008 to recognise the commitment of the exceptional people who, like Jim, make a difference in our community.

“We offer our sincere condolences to Jim’s family and friends at this time.”