TRIBUTES have been paid to a highly respected doctor from the Alexandra Hospital who has died aged 57.

Consultant urologist Christopher Rennie (pictured right) died suddenly on September 15.

Mr Rennie, who lived in Salwarpe near Droitwich, started his career at the old Bromsgrove Hospital before moving to the Alex when it opened 19 years ago.

He continued to run a weekly clinic at the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bromsgrove and was also the Undergraduate Clinical Sub Dean - a post he assumed in December 2003.

Retired surgeon Laurie Read, who worked alongside Mr Rennie, said: "He was a great surgeon, supportive and worked very hard to help develop the entire surgical department of the hospital.

"He was a good friend and colleague and his death is a tragedy at such a young age."

Former patient Bridget Hankin was very ill when Mr Rennie operated on her several years ago.

She said: "He made such a difference to my life and countless others. He actually gave me my life back. He was a fantastic neurologist and a fantastic person.

"I really can't say enough in praise of Mr Rennie. His death will leave a lot of people in Redditch absolutely devastated."

A funeral service for Mr Rennie's family was held on Friday.

A service of prayers for staff and patients at the Alex was held at the hospital at the same time and a book of condolences is available in the multi faith prayer room.

A service of memorial and thanksgiving will also be held at Worcester Cathedral on Saturday, October 22 at 11am.

Colleagues are planning to plant a tree in memory of Mr Rennie in the hospital grounds.