Barry Sullivan 1948-2008 - Memorial bench unveiled for man who fought for others

Published: 20 May 2010
by RICHARD OSLEY

BARRY Sullivan – the people’s champion who gave up his life to help others – will be remembered in Camden Town forever after a memorial bench was unveiled in one of his favourite parks.

The former manager at the Camden Town Neighbourhood Advice Centre, who was adored by friends and the hundreds who he helped, died two years ago from cancer. Around 70 people turned out in St Martin’s Gardens on Saturday afternoon to toast Mr Sullivan.

Labour councillor Roger Robinson, former mayor Gloria Lazenby and friends “Red” Jen Matthias and Ellen Luby all spoke about their memories of the tireless campaigner.

The centre was formerly based in Greenland Road, Camden Town. In a decision that gutted the volunteers who kept the service running at all hours and even on Christmas Day, the CTNAC was evicted by the council leading to a stand-off in which Mr Sullivan famously led a brave rooftop protest.

It was his work at ground level, however, that was fondly remembered on Saturday as people recalled how he gave up every day to help those most in need.