DR Simon Penn, a man who perhaps did more than anyone to put Bromsgrove's Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings on the map, has died.

Simon died on Saturday after a long illness. He is thought to be in his mid-40s.

A native of Smethwick, Simon got his history degree in 1980 from the University of Birmingham and a PhD in 1989.

He joined the Stoke Heath museum as its curator and went on to become director when Michael Thomas retired. He lived with his family in a timber framed cottage on the site.

His deep knowledge of historical and old buildings and his enthusiasm for the subject made school trips to the museum an enjoyable experience for hundreds of local youngsters.

During his time at Avoncroft Simon masterminded the acquisition of many of the buildings and items on display today.

Notable among them is the magnificent carved Guesten Hall roof, which crowns a modern building and the national telephone collection.

Bromsgrove District council leader Dennis Norton, who knew Simon well, said his contribution to teaching and education would be a lasting legacy.

Local historian and author Dr Alan Richards, who worked with Simon when he organised extra-mural lectures, said: "He was an inspiring teacher about architecture and early buildings and enthused the band of volunteers and salaried staff who work at the museum."

Graham Reddie, president of the Bromsgrove Society - which has links with the museum, said: "He was a splendid chap."

Catherine Guest, secretary of Kidderminster and District Archaeology and History Society, said they offered Simon the post of president after he had given a talk there two years ago on the strength of his local knowledge. "He will be sorely missed," she added.

A funeral service will be held at 11am next Tuesday at Redditch Crematorium.