Tragedy of couple killed in Oldbury car crash

Rev John Bedford and wife Audrey were killed when their grey Volvo collided with a black Audi in Oldbury.

Today friends said the tragedy had devastated the community they had served for decades, and described them as a 'mother and father' to many.

The couple, who lived in Kingsway, were at the forefront of the Baptist church in Oldbury for more than 40 years, and Mr Bedford, aged 82, led Kings Community Church, formerly Brandhall Church, on Tame Road and George Road for more than two decades.

They also served at Londonderry Baptist Church in Oldbury, and Baptist churches in Bewdley and Coseley.

They travelled the world so Mr Bedford could preach, his loyal wife, 81, always by his side. They also led church building missions in South America. They leave three children and six grandchildren.

Friend Reg Webb, 70, of Oak Road, Oldbury today spoke of the tragic loss.

"John was a powerful and effective preacher and teacher, and an excellent personal counsellor," he said.

"Their lives have impacted and enriched the lives of many hundreds of people in a number of countries."

Freda Boore, 80, of nearby Monckton Road, added: "They were a nice couple who were always available to help people out.

"The news was a great shock and I'm really upset. They'll be sadly missed."

Brian and Joyce Collett, members of the Kings Community Church in Oldbury, knew the couple for more than 30 years.

Mr Collett, 75, of Brandhall Road, said: "They were a wonderful couple – very faithful, very passionate and hard-working."

Mrs Collett, 71, said: "They were the mother and fathers of the local churches."

The accident happened at the junction of the A4123 Wolverhampton Road and Brandhall Road at 1.20pm on Thursday. A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion on dangerous driving.

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