Express & Star

'Everything was community with Bob': Former West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Bob Jones gets honour

The West Midlands' first Police and Crime Commissioner Bob Jones has been honoured after a popular community centre was renamed in his memory.

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Mr Jones died suddenly at the aged of 59 last year and to recognise his contribution to the city, Blakenhall Community and Healthy Living Centre was renamed the Bob Jones Community Hub.

The centre's new name was unveiled at a special ceremony on Friday attended by members of his family and former friends, colleagues and constituents of Mr Jones.

He was just 25 when he was first elected as a councillor for the Blakenhall ward and went on to serve the people of Wolverhampton for more than 30 years.

His widow, Sarah Edmondson, unveiled a plaque commemorating the hub with deputy police and crime commissioner Yvonne Mosquito and councillor Elias Mattu, the cabinet member for adult services at Wolverhampton council.

Mrs Edmondson said she was humbled by the ceremony held in her husband's honour.

"I had no idea that so many people held him in such high esteem - you don't when you're married to somebody.

"It was brilliant to be able to unveil the plaque. Everything was community with Bob, he always thought you should listen to people. He dedicated his life to serving the people of Wolverhampton.

"So often the people in charge go away on their own little steam and don't bother going and asking people what they want but Bob thought it was so important to ask people what they want and do his best to help them.

She added: "Today has been a fabulous day."

Wolverhampton MPs Emma Reynolds, Pat McFadden and Rob Marris all attended to pay their respects to Mr Jones among a host of councillors from across the city.

While the day featured performances by Dohl drummers, Jai Jashn dancers and the Spen Roninder Highland Pipe Band.

Miss Reynolds said: "Bob Jones was a dear friend and colleague and he gave his life to serving his constituents as a councillor.

"He was so kind and generous to me over the years and it was a huge shock when we lost him so suddenly.

"I think its very fitting that the community centre here in Blakenhall where he was a councillor for so many years is being named after him.

"It is wonderful to know that there will be a plaque in memory of him and when people come to this centre they will remember Bob Jones."

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