Memorial to victim of Cradley Heath hit-and-run accident
The family of a great grandfather of seven, who died after a hit-and-run accident, is hoping to have a park bench installed in his memory.
Retired bricklayer Bernard Betts, aged 85, was knocked down outside his home in Barrs Road, Cradley Heath, as he left to take his dog Jack for a walk.
Today his son Les said they were planning to approach the council about installing the bench in Hayden Hill Park, where his father would take Jack every day.
The idea was mooted on Wednesday when dozens of Mr Betts's friends and relatives attended his funeral at Rowley Regis Crematorium.
"We don't know exactly where we want to put the bench yet, " said Les, a teacher at Walsall College.
"We will have to contact the council and get permission. We have no idea how much it will cost but we all agree it will be a fitting tribute."
Meanwhile police say they have received "some information" on the back of a poster appeal to find the driver responsible.
The Express and Star joined forces with West Midlands Police to launch the campaign earlier this month.
"The police are keeping their cards close to their chests but we understand they have made some progress," added Les, a teacher at Walsall College.
"We really want justice to be done. My father was a fit man and then bang; this person has turned our lives upside down. It has caused so much disruption. I would not wish it on anyone. I would love it if the poster campaign does tweak someone's conscience."
Retired bricklayer Bernard was knocked down on January 16 and died 18 days later. He was a keen Aston Villa fan.
