Tributes paid after death of former Walsall mayor aged 91
Tributes have been paid after the death of a former Black Country Mayor.
Walsall Council confirmed the death of Brian Douglas-Maul after a short illness.
Mr Douglas-Maul, who was 91, served as a councillor in Walsall for 42 years before stepping down in 2021, with several of those years spent as chair of the environmental services committee, along with many years as chair of the employment appeals committee.
He served as mayor of Walsall from 2000 to 2001, with his wife Jean at his side as mayoress.
The borough flag which flies outside the council house has been lowered as a sign of respect and there will be an opportunity for elected members to pay tribute to his long record of public service at the next full council meeting on February 23.
The meeting is open to the public and will also be live-streamed.
Councillor Mike Bird, leader of Walsall Council, said: “Brian Douglas-Maul was a friend and a longstanding council colleague who will be sadly missed, especially with his knowledge of planning as a retired architect from Birmingham Council.
"Brian and I started the council journey together as far back as 1979 and both he and his family were always involved particularly at election times.
"Ironically, he started his political career in the Pheasey ward which I personally represent at this point in time, having moved when the boundaries changed from the Streetly ward which Brian continued to represent until he stepped down from his council duties.
"I am sure all of the group will join me with our heartfelt sympathy and best wishes to Brian’s family.”
Councillor Aftab Nawaz, for and on behalf of Walsall Labour Group, said: “We are saddened to learn of the death of former councillor Brian Douglas-Maul.
"Brian gave 42 years of his life in service to Walsall as a councillor.
"He will be remembered as a gentleman who served with integrity and professionalism.
"His work on the planning committee was a pleasure to witness and a source of so much learning for new councillors.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”
Mr Douglas-Maul lived in the Stafford area, but served in Walsall throughout his time as a councillor.
