Bench 'a fitting tribute' to community campaigner

The family of "a much-loved community campaigner" have spoken of their pride to see a commemorative bench installed at a new housing development in Wolverhampton.

More than 20 new homes have been built in Low Hill on the disused Peach Tree adventure playground and garages by Old Fallings Crescent.

Mother-of-six Noreen Turner was honoured for her services to the Low Hill area in 1993, receiving the Order of the British Empire award. She was involved in the children's adventure playground and organising community seaside trips.

She died in 2018 aged 82 and her family said the bench was "a fitting tribute to a woman who gave so much of herself to others".

Daughter Lynne Daffern said: "Mom dedicated her life to serving the community she loved and always believed in bringing people together.

"As a family, we are incredibly proud that her compassion, determination and community spirit will be remembered here by the many people whose lives she touched throughout the years."

The bench, located in a green space within the development, was unveiled by the family on Monday as the first residents moved into their new homes, the city council said.

The development of 24 properties includes a mix of detached and semi detached houses, bungalows and a small number of flats, along with 52 parking spaces.

All of the homes have a high energy efficiency rating with solar panels and electric vehicle charging points, according to the local authority.

Councillor Steve Evans, deputy leader and cabinet member for city housing and assets, said the authority was proud of the development which also "recognises the lasting contribution of a truly inspirational community campaigner".

Turner, he said, was "passionate about improving opportunities for local people and it is fitting that her legacy is remembered here, in a development that is providing safe, accessible and affordable homes for families in housing need".

He added: "We are proud that our in-house team has led on the delivery of these much needed council homes, helping residents to put down roots and build their futures in thriving neighbourhoods."

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