THE manager of a long-running Kidderminster day centre has paid respects to a member of staff and an attendee who sadly died less than 24 hours apart.

Steve Madeley, aged 61, who worked at the Odell Centre for adults with learning disabilities and mental health issues on Plimsoll Street, died after a long battle against Oesophageal Cancer on Thursday, June 13.

At the social, leisure and recreational centre, Steve set up the Odell allotment along with woodwork and fishing activities for members.

Odell Centre manager Craig Darby said: "Steve was a true gentleman and a genuine nice guy who it was an absolute pleasure to work with for many years and he will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

"Steve devoted the latter part of his working career at both the Odell Centre and Beacon Employment, helping people who had a learning disability or mental health issue and helping them to achieve their goals."

Steve lived in Bewdley and his late father owned the newsagents in the town for many years. Steve also worked at the Safari Park when it first opened.

Craig added: "He was very much a family man and our thoughts go out to Steve’s wife Darryl and son Tom. Steve will not be forgotten."

Following the death of Steve, previous centre attendee Robin O'Dell, aged 79, who had autism, died less than 24 hours later of Friday, June 14.

The manager says that the centre "would not have existed if it had not been for Robin."

He said: "In the early 1980’s Robin’s father Eric was trying to get a day provision set up in the Wyre Forest for adults who have a learning disability to be able to attend.

"However, Eric died very suddenly and others involved in the original steering group carried on Eric’s work, out of which The Odell Trust was formed as a registered charity in 1984 and the subsequent creation of the Odell Centre as a day activity centre for adults who have a learning disability, and more recently for those who also have mental health issues."

The manager says Robin was a "very recognisable," usually wearing a flat cap and brown raincoat, and carrying a black umbrella and shopping bag.

Craig added: "Robin was a very special member to everyone associated with the Odell Centre and will be greatly missed.

"He had been attending the Odell Centre until a few months before he died when he moved into a Care Home due to failing health.

"I had been to see Robin in the Care Home on the day he passed away and I believe he passed away about five minutes after I left."