THE chairman of Black Country Housing Group has died following a period of illness.

Sarah Webb died on Sunday, September 4, surrounded by her family.

Paying tribute to her, Sandra Spence, the chief executive of BCHG, said: “Sarah’s death is an enormous loss. She has played an integral role in housing for over 20 years and her friends, colleagues and everyone involved in the sector will miss her greatly. During her time as chair, she was a privilege to work with and our thoughts are with Sarah’s family during this difficult time.

“Throughout her career Sarah passionately cared about housing and how it can work to provide health and well-being for people. She was a great advocate of the activities and initiatives of BCHG and firmly believed that housing associations could do more to help communities. She placed great value in our other activities such as helping schools and assisting those seeking employment. Sarah had a great sense of humor and her strategic thinking ability was of great value to BCHG through which she made an enormous contribution.”

Ms Webb was appointed in 2008, after serving on the board since 2000.

She began her career as a housing officer in Glasgow and worked for the Scottish Council for Single Homeless, as well as holding positions at Birmingham City Council and at the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

She was appointed Chartered Institute of Housing chief executive in 2008 – and was also awarded a CBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours for services to the housing sector.