Tributes have been paid to former Councillor Colin Doar at an extraordinary meeting of Wandsworth Council, held on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, where his passing was announced.
Councillor Doar, who served as a councillor for 16 years between 1990 and 2006, was remembered by colleagues for his dedication to the community and his distinctive personal style. Mayor Emmeline Owens announced the sad news, prompting heartfelt tributes from Councillors Kemi Akinola and Ravi Govindia.
Councillor Akinola recalled Councillor Doar's extensive involvement with the Rotary Club, highlighting his support for a wide range of local and international causes. He supported schools, training centres, and a well in Ghana, as well as recovery efforts in Pakistan, sponsoring volunteers in the Rohingya crisis, and paying for children's education in Africa through the Rotary Club,
she stated. She also noted his support for St John's Ambulance, St George's Hospital, and her own charity, describing him as politely feisty, very opinionated, but also very charming.
Councillor Govindia remembered Councillor Doar's old-fashioned and elegant
demeanour and his lifelong dedication to public service and the borough. He did well for this borough, and I hope we did well by him,
Councillor Govindia stated.
While Councillor Doar's specific political affiliation was not explicitly stated, Councillor Akinola mentioned that most of her Rotary Club colleagues were paid-up conservatives. She also recalled Councillor Doar's reaction to her joining the Labour party, saying, I don't approve, but I wish you the best. I'm sure you'll be good at it.
The meeting's agenda and public reports pack can be found on the Wandsworth Council democracy website: Agenda frontsheet 15th Sep 2026 and Public reports pack 15th Sep 2026.