Family in touching tribute to 'hero' city Mayor Elias Mattu
The family of Elias Mattu has paid tribute to their 'hero', who has died aged 59.
Wolverhampton Mayor and councillor Mr Mattu represented Wolverhampton's Graiseley ward for nearly 18 years and became the city's 159th Mayor in May.
His death has led to an outpouring of grief across the city. He is survived by his wife Asha and children Anthony, Ishmael and Jessica.
Mrs Mattu, the Mayoress of Wolverhampton, said today: “On behalf of my family, I would like to express our heartfelt thanks for the many kind words and tributes that have been paid to our beloved Elias.
“He would be truly humbled by the outpouring of love we are witnessing.
"Elias could not have been prouder to have been made the Mayor of the city he loved. He moved to Wolverhampton from India as a nine-year-old boy and never left.
“Elias dedicated his life to the people of his ward in Graiseley and to the wider city. He respected everyone and always took the time to speak to people, brightening their day with that beaming smile of his.
“To our family, he was undoubtedly our hero – an irreplaceable husband and father whose memory we shall cherish forever.”
A public book of condolence for Mr Mattu has been set up inside the Civic Centre.
