'He was a community man through and through': Walsall Council pays tribute following death of former mayor Dennis Anson

Walsall Council members have given their tributes to former mayor and councillor of 25 years, Mr Dennis Anson, who sadly passed away in February 2026.

Mr Dennis Anson was first elected to the council in May 1991, where he represented the Pleck ward, and remained a steadfast voice for his community and its residents until his retirement in May 2016.

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In 2012 to 2013, Mr Anson was inaugurated as the Mayor of Walsall, where, during his time, he was known for his tireless fundraising efforts and his support for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.

In tributes, the current Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison, said that she was 'deeply saddened' to hear of the passing of the former mayor, adding that he was a 'true gentleman' who served with dignity and kindness.

She said: "I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Mayor Dennis Anson. Dennis was a true gentleman who served our borough with dignity and kindness. 

"He gave his time generously to the community and always placed people at the heart of everything he did. He will be remembered for his integrity and unwavering commitment to others. My heartfelt condolences go to his family and loved ones at this difficult time."

Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Mike Bird, noted that Mr Anson was a 'great colleague', saying that he was a 'community man' through and through.

He said: "Dennis was a great colleague for whom I had the utmost respect. He was a 'community man' through and through, serving his constituents with passion from 1991 right up until his retirement. 

"He was a loyal and long-standing leader in Walsall's politics, and his contribution to the Council and the borough was significant. Our sincere gratitude to him for his service and our condolences to his family and friends at this time."

In honour of Dennis' long-standing commitment to health research, the council has announced that they will be accepting donations for Blood Cancer UK, to continue championing Mr Anson's passions.