CUNNINGHAME Housing Association has announced the death of its former chair, Ron Richards, who passed away on Sunday after a brave battle with cancer.

Ron, 73, was a tenant of CHA in Ardrossan where he lived all his life and had been a member of the association’s Board of Management since 2005.

He was first elected as Chairman at the 2009 Annual General Meeting and remained in the post for five years until last year’s Annual General Meeting. During the five years as chair, Ron was a well respected ambassador for the association and promoted CHA as a community anchor and champion.

A spokesperson for CHA said: “Being a voluntary member of the association requires enthusiasm, commitment and time – which Ron demonstrated in abundance over the years.

“He had a very strong interest in our communities and was always keen to learn new skills in order to keep abreast of the sector.” In recognition of his voluntary role with CHA, Ron became the first Ayrshire Board Member to win the prestigious and highly coveted Employers in Voluntary Housing’s ‘Helen McGregor Award’ in October 2014.

During the last year Ron had been undergoing treatment for cancer, which he bore with great dignity and fortitude.

Colleagues at CHA say his participation in the work of the association did not diminish during this time nor did his determination to remain an active member of the organisation.

Mr Richards served in the Royal Medical Corps in the Far East and was a leading member of the Three Towns branch of the British Legion, helping to develop the branch and carrying their colours for many years.

Together with his wife Cath – who was poppy convener – Ron gave up much of his time raising funds for the Legion poppy appeal.

Legion President Alastair Kennedy said: “The branch members would like to pass their condolences to Ron’s family.

“He will be remembered by all who knew him.” Ron is survived by his wife Cath and his three sons Michael, Alan and Andrew.

His funeral will be at Holmsford Bridge Crematorium, Dreghorn, on Thursday, January 29 at 10am.