A PUBLIC book of condolences is now open in Redditch for people to pay their respects to Nelson Mandela, who died last night.
The book is in reception at the Town Hall and will be available for people to sign until at least the end of January. Reception is open from 9am until 5pm, Monday to Friday, and 9am until noon on Saturdays.
The tributes to the first black president of South Africa will then be sent on to the South African Commission in London.
Councillor Bill Hartnett, leader of Redditch Council, said: “Mr Mandela was the symbol of civil rights to millions worldwide and many people in Redditch will be saddened by his death. He was a truly great man and changed the world for good.
“We have now opened a book of condolences which will be sent to the South African government.”
A recurring lung infection had been affecting Mr Mandela, who was 95.
There will also be a minute of silence at Monday’s meeting of Redditch Council, where members of the council will be paying tributes. The public meeting is at the town hall from 7pm.
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