Tributes have been paid to a Glastonbury Festival legend, who died after a short illness.
Longtime commercial director Robert Richards passed away this week aged 65. His good friend and festival founder, Michael Eavis, has led the tributes, describing him as a "remarkable man", reports Somerset Live.
A statement from Michael Eavis reads: "Robert Richards died yesterday at Guy’s Hospital, London, after a short illness. He was 65.
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"He worked for the festival for over 30 years. His first job was setting up the information and CND campaigning stalls and he was the producer of Julien Temple’s Glastonbury film in 2006.
"In recent years, Robert has been responsible for partnerships, large commercial deals and sponsorship, and he helped secure the license for the festival to continue in 2014."
The statement adds: "Alongside this work, Robert helped me personally with projects in Pilton village, particularly the big social housing project and the village shop.
"He was also chairman of the Glastonbury Town Fund Board which raised £24million for the town in 2021.
"I am personally very sad and upset to lose this remarkable man who I will find difficult to replace.
"Now that the fever of life and his days are over, may God give his soul the rest it deserves.
"Thank you, Robert."
Tributes have also been paid by local authority figures.
Julie Reader-Sullivan, head of service for planning and growth at Mendip District Council and leader of the support team for the Glastonbury Town Deal, said: "We were saddened to hear the tragic news about Robert Richards, whose loss will be keenly felt throughout the Glastonbury community, Somerset as a whole, and further afield.
"As chair of the Glastonbury Town Deal Board, he was an inspiration, getting things going from a standing start and driving this ambitious vision for the town.
"His wealth of enthusiasm, energy and creativity, combined with his wide knowledge and experience, made him an empowering person to work with, while his good-humoured nature made him a pleasure to be around.
"Through his work with the Glastonbury Town Deal, he has undoubtedly left an inspiring legacy for the town.
"He will be greatly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to all his family and friends at this very sad time."
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