A NEW development of affordable homes in Rugby – on the site of a former ambulance station – has been named in recognition of a local hero.
The new cul-de-sac, part of a development off Brownsover Lane, will be named Wilf Brown Close, after a popular member of the ambulance service’s team who served for 35 years.
Wilf worked in Rugby as Leading Ambulanceman and Technician throughout his career, which spanned lasted from 1966 to 2001. He died in 2004 at the age of 62.
The street was formally named by his wife Anne, accompanied by family, friends and former colleagues.
Anne said: “It’s a very proud moment today for myself and my family. Wilf was so special to us. I just wanted to say he would be so pleased at all this and to thank everybody involved in making it a memorable occasion.”
Mayor of Rugby Coun Richard Dodd, who is also a paramedic area support officer with West Midlands Ambulance Service and a former colleague of Wilf’s, said: “My first recollection of this site goes back to 1991 when I first entered the former ambulance station. One of the first people to greet me was a giant of a man who turned out to be a gentle giant who went by the name of Wilf Brown. I am sure that many of us here today will all have our very fond memories of a true gentleman.”
MP Mark Pawsey, who also attended the ceremony, said: “Naming this road Wilf Brown Close is a great tribute to a local member of the community.
“It is right that we see the history and character of the town reflected in new development and regeneration, especially in places like this where the site holds so many important memories for the people of Rugby.”
Anthony Riley, director of development and operations at Waterloo Housing Group, said: “We are pleased that by working with our partners, not only have we been able to meet local housing need, but also make a fitting tribute to a special member of the Rugby ambulance service who served his local community for many years.”
The former ambulance station – which was sold as part of West Midlands Ambulance Service’s ‘Make Ready’ scheme – has been replaced by 29 new houses as part of a £365,000 development by Waterloo Housing Group in partnership with Rugby Borough Council and Seddon Construction Limited.
The old ambulance station has been replaced by two smaller Community Ambulance Stations at other locations in Rugby.
