The News has learnt of the passing of Daniel McCarthy, who twice served as mayor of Southwark.
Mr McCarthy served as a councillor for the former Liddle ward between 1982 and 1998, the Cathedrals ward in SE1 between 2002 and 2010, when he chose to stand down.
He served as a Liberal Democrat councillor before joining the Labour Party in 2006.
He became the mayor of Southwark for the year 1991-92, and then again for 1994-95, and was a Freeman of the City of London.
Before retiring Mr McCarthy was a professional electrician, and was a member of Unite the Union for over 45 years.
A spokesperson for Southwark Council confirmed today that Mr McCarthy had died, and it is understood that council leader Peter John has spoken to his next of kin.
Councillor Richard Livingstone said on Twitter: “Sad to hear that former [Southwark Council] mayor Danny McCarthy has died – a truly wonderful man. My thoughts are with Chris & family. R.I.P.”
Mr McCarthy also used to write an online blog until 2008, called ‘councillordannymccarthy.blogspot.co.uk’
The News reported in 2009 that Mr McCarthy was battling with three conditions: bowl disease, colitis and diverticulitis. However, it is not known if any of these factors contributed to his death.
Anyone who would like to pay tribute to Mr McCarthy can do so by writing to news@southwarknews.co.uk.