Redditch Council's leader has suggested a permanent memorial is erected for town stalwart Walter Stranz, who died recently.

Mr Stranz, 81, a former mayor, Labour town and county councillor and only man to be made Freeman of Redditch, died in August after battling Parkinson's disease.

At a recent full council meeting, councillors paid tribute to Mr Stranz.

Council leader David Cartwright, Labour, said: "The kindness and intelligence of Walter will never be matched.

"As long as I live I'll never forget him. He was someone who was greatly admired by everyone."

Former Conservative councillor Pat Wilson said: "I find it difficult to grieve for Walter as I can still remember and still see everything he did for this town which he loved so much."

Mr Cartwright suggested some form of tribute should be created but said Mr Stranz would probably not have approved as he was always a modest man.

He added it was an ext-remely important thing to do and that consultation should take place between Mr Stranz' wife, Betty, and people who knew him before decisions were made.

Mrs Stranz said: "It's early stages so I haven't got ideas yet but it's wonderful the council want this tribute.

"Knowing Walter, he would have wanted something really subtle - or something really garish and tacky that people would write moaning letters about.

"But he certainly wouldn't wanted a road named after though - he hated that.

"I'm hoping I'll get a flash of inspiration but I'm sure his councillor friends will come up with something excellent.

"And its great they want to consult our family and Walter's non-political friends."