TRIBUTES have poured in for late community champion Charles Talbot MBE, including from the youth organisation he founded over 50 years ago.

Mr Talbot, known by many as ‘Mr Kidderminster’ for his tireless work in the town, passed away on Saturday, October 19.

Amongst the stalwart's successes through his community work is the setting up of the Kidderminster District Youth Trust (KDYT). 

Mr Talbot founded KDYT in 1966, raising funds to build Kidderminster Youth House in 1970.

Paying tribute to the trust’s founder, KDYT’s operations manager Michael Oliver-Brooke said: “He was an incredible man.

"He was determined to make sure young people had somewhere to go and had the right services.

“He was passionate, funny and had a twinkle in his eye.

"We all miss him including the young people.

“His vision is still alive today and we will continue his legacy into the future.”

Kidderminster Shuttle:

The stalwart solicitor was named in the Queen’s New Year Honours in 2017 for services to the community which has seen him tirelessly work in Wyre Forest public life for almost 60 years.

Councillors have also paid tribute to the late stalwart.

Deputy Leader of Wyre Forest District Council Fran Oborski said: “He was one of the most charming people I have ever met and he was a passionate believer in the town.

"He’s going to leave an enormous hole in public life.”

Councillor Marcus Hart wrote on Facebook: “He was one of the kindest, nicest true gentleman I have ever met.

“I first met Charles doing work experience at Talbots Solicitors when I was 16 and he was really kind to me and has been so ever since.

“He once said to me, My dear Marcus, never look back only with a smile.”

Councillor Nathan Desmond paid tribute on Facebook, saying: “He was Mr Kidderminster and immensely embedded in the fabric and history of the town.

“He was passionate about the town. A fountain of knowledge on all topics, a true gentleman who will be deeply missed.”