A MAN who helped guide Bromsgrove through good times and bad and who "made a significant contribution" to the town retired last week after 40 years' service with the district council.

Bob Lewis, who initially indicated his intention to leave next spring, retired on Friday from his combined post as the council's district secretary and corporate director.

In a tribute, council chairman John Tidmarsh (Con-Stoke Prior), said: "It is rare in local government that unbroken service in excess of forty years is achieved. Bob Lewis has completed forty years' service and all with Bromsgrove council.

"He will be remembered for the kindly and professional way he has steered the council and its members through times of difficulty and success, achieving a reputation for advice and service that could be relied on."

Cllr Tidmarsh went on to say: "That perhaps is the cornerstone but it is not the entire story, as you might expect Bromsgrove has experienced many changes."

Changes the town has seen during Bob Lewis' time include the pedestrianisation of the High Street, which used to be the main A38 trunk road and the creation of a swimming baths.

"He has made a significant contribution to Bromsgrove, having the wisdom to comprehend, the judgement to define, and the ability to enforce judgement, a man of integrity, we wish him well in his retirement," added Cllr Tidmarsh.

An intensely private man whose hobbies include transport memorabilia, Mr Lewis twice declined the opportunity of a formal leaving presentation by colleagues and councillors.

However, before he left, he presented a sign to the miniature railway at Avoncroft museum where he enjoyed a spin taking the controls of the locomotive.

It is understood Mr Lewis will continue as a magistrate.