I was saddened to read of the death of former County Express journalist Dennis Elwell in the Stourbridge News. As a junior reporter on the paper some 35-years-ago I knew Dennis well. My desk was next to Dennis’s in the offices in Victoria Passage and as a callow youth, wide-eyed at his first foray into the world of newspapers, I would listen and learn from his sage advice.

Courteous and accommodating of the youngster foisted upon him, Dennis would nod calmly when, in youthful exuberance I would slightly mock his claims on astrology.

Eventually, having evidently decided enough was enough, he politely but firmly skewered me with the most incisive and perceptive description of my inner personality and character. He was spot on. I shut up.

Dennis was above all things a gentleman, and that is how I will remember him. My condolences to his family.

Ian Murray Dorset