Bob Clark, an advocate for various charities and community organisations around the city, has died aged 67.

He was described as a true gentleman with a big heart and an amazing sense of humour by his wife Saire Herschel-Clark, who he married earlier this year.

A former Bellemoor School pupil and retired council worker, Bob was a much-loved and well-known figure in Southampton who had a profound impact on the lives of many, which will continue for years to come.

Annie Clewlow, Manager at Communicare, the lead organisation for Southampton Mental Health Network, told the Daily Echo: “Bob was a truly inspirational person to know and work with. He was fully committed throughout his life to improving the struggles people face with mental health, regardless of background or the problem at hand.

“Bob’s tireless efforts have made such a difference at all levels of the services on offer today. He easily connected with everyone in the organisation though his humbleness, kindness and gentle humour."

Rob Kurn, CEO of Southampton Voluntary Services, added: "Bob was involved as a trustee and volunteer in numerous local charities over the years, bringing a lived-experience perspective. Bob’s interest and passion for this work came from his own experience of mental health. Although his mental health diagnosis wasn’t a label that defined him as a person, he did reflect that it had been the making of him.

"Bob, a kind, gentle, humorous and cultured man, will be greatly missed in Southampton."

Bob loved films, especially black and white ones, and was also a lover of classical music. He had a huge collection of books, DVDs and CDs.

His wealth of knowledge meant Bob was an expert quizzer and he was often found having a pint and socialising in his local Wetherspoons or in an Oxfam Bookshop, which he would never leave empty-handed.