Darryn Van Vuuren had worked for the council since 2013

COUNCIL staff have begun paying tribute to a popular colleague who died after a ‘fall from height’ inside Camden’s offices in King’s Cross.

A book of condolences has opened following the death of Darryn Van Vuuren last Thursday, with a collection of warm messages continuing to grow.

The incident at Five Pancras Square – known as 5PS – is being investigated by police but is not considered suspicious.

The offices have been closed all week as a “mark of respect” to Mr Van Vuuren but will re-open on Monday for critical workers.

And, in an email sent across the workforce today (Friday), council chief executive Jenny Rowlands said she will be available to talk to any staff about their concerns.

“I want you to know that we are here to listen, to understand and to keep you safe and well,” she said.

“I have cleared my diary on Monday and will be sitting on floor two for the day. If you want to come and see me, bring a cup of tea and have a socially-distanced chat, I’d really love to see you.”

She added: “I want to thank you all for everything you are doing to look after each other right now. I’ve heard such incredible stories of your kindness and compassion. Please remember to be kind to yourselves too, and if you need support, know that we are here for you.”

The 5PS office block

A review of safety in the building has already been carried out, she said, and “rigorous tests” have been passed.

Dozens of colleagues have already signed tributes to Mr Van Vuuren, who had worked for the council since 2013, most recently in the procurement team but before that in children’s centres  – including Agar Grove – and libraries.

He was described as a dedicated and passionate member of staff, a “top bloke” who was full of fascinating facts and equipped with a dry wit.

“He was a gentleman, very clever and always very helpful,” said one of the many tributes. “I was very proud of what he achieved in Camden.”

Another said: “You [Mr Van Vuuren] were amazing to work with, always finding clever ways to do things better and brilliant to chat to about anything. How did you know so much about everything? I remember in those conversations you were always smiling – that’s how I will remember you.”

Ms Rowlands’ message said: “Darryn’s connection to our organisation spreads across many teams, and we know that many colleagues knew him and will miss him greatly.”

Counselling and one-to-one conversations have been offered to Mr Van Vuuren’s close colleagues and those who were in the building at the time, and a team of external trauma experts has also been made available with those affected urged to reach out for help.

Some questions about the incident would not be possible to answer at this stage due to the ongoing investigation, Ms Rowlands said, but added “the police have now confirmed that they are not treating the circumstances of this tragic death as suspicious”.

A police statement earlier had confirmed a man had died after “falling from height”. The circumstances are also expected to be reviewed at coroner’s inquest.

• Anyone struggling is urged to call the Samaritans who offer free and confidential advice during times of crisis. You can contact them on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org