Calls to remember Fred

A temple in Wolverhampton is holding a special memorial service to give ring road tramp Fred a proper send-off amid calls for a permanent tribute to him, it emerged today.

Wolverhampton City Council is arranging the funeral of Fred, real name Josef Stawinoga, but Sikhs in the city want to be involved.

Many Sikhs and Hindus treated 86-year-old Fred, who lived on Ring Road St John's for more than 30 years, as a holy man.

They believed he lived an enlightened life because he spurned material possessions in favour of a simple existence.

Leaders at Wednesfield Sikh Temple in Well Lane have now arranged to hold a holy service around the time of the funeral, which does not yet have a date.

Other temples of different faiths are also believed to be arranging their own services.

They and others have also called on the council to put up some form of lasting memorial to Fred.

Suggestions put forward include a bench, a tree or even a statue or plaque on the central reservation which he called home.

Avtar Singh, from the temple in Wednesfield, said today: "We have asked that there be a funeral procession for Mr Stawinoga which would pause at his camp site. We are also asking that a small plaque or plate to remember Mr Stawinoga be erected at the ring road.

"It would be fitting if he is cremated that his ashes were buried where he lived for so many years."

Council chiefs say they will consider any suggestions for a permanent memorial. Deputy leader Peter Bilson said any plans for a memorial would be discussed after the funeral.

How should Fred be remembered? Post your ideas and comments below.