Rob lived at New Start, where he became not just a much‑loved resident but a true family friend.

Over nearly twenty years, he gave his time freely to our charitable work, always arriving with that unforgettable smile — the kind that could lift even the heaviest heart. His laugh was infectious, his manner always gentle, and his welcome always sincere. Rob wasn’t just part of our circle; he was everybody’s friend.

He shared our values — loyal, kind, loving — and carried them into every organisation he supported.

Wherever Rob volunteered, he became a valued, active member, helping, fundraising, and making sure things ran smoothly.

One of Rob’s greatest joys was becoming Santa each year. I’ll never forget 2008, when Liverpool Heartbeat and Performance Studios were invited onto the oncology ward at Alder Hey Hospital. Rob brought magic into that room — handing out presents, singing with the children — and the moment was captured on national television. He also played Santa for Liverpool’s orphans at the Devonshire House Hotel, bringing smiles to young and old alike. He was, in every sense, a true Santa.

Rob’s kindness reached far beyond festive moments. He wrote to Buckingham Palace on my behalf, a gesture that led to me receiving the MBE for services to the community. He stood beside me as a guest at the Palace — a memory I treasure deeply. In 2012, he joined our Tri‑4‑Life team at Westminster, toured the Houses of Parliament, and even visited the Olympic complex before its opening.

In recent years, Rob became a prominent member of Elektric Apple, helping out twice a week and becoming part of the heart of the group.

Rob, you will always be in our hearts. You were one of a kind — a gentle, generous soul who made the world brighter simply by being in it. You will never be forgotten.