A local house builder has paid tribute to a much-loved Ross-on-Wye mayor, naming a new residential street in his honour.

On Thursday, March 7, local dignitaries gathered at The Orchards, a David Wilson Homes Development in Hildersley, for the official unveiling of ‘Bedford Way’- a street named in honour of late Ross-on-Wye mayor, Derek Bedford. 

The Derek Bedford moved to Ross-on-Wye in 1992, where he served as a town councillor for two decades, serving the community he loved with pride and unrivalled work ethic. 

He, and his wife, Meryl, then went on to serve as Mayor and Mayoress of Ross in 2001 to 2007. 

On visiting the street named after her late husband for the first time, Meryl said: “I am delighted that Ross Town Council and David Wilson homes chose to name the developments main street ‘Bedford Way’.

“Derek would have been over the moon at the thought of being remembered this way- and I hope The Orchards’ residents enjoy living in the lovely town of Ross-on-Wye just as much as Derek did.” 

Town Mayor, Louis Stark, also paid tribute during the ceremony. He said: “I knew Derek in his role as a leading light in the town for several years. He was always engaging and willing to provide advice on local matters — with the best interests of Ross at the heart of everything he did. 

This is an extremely fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to his town.”