A bid to install a plaque in memory of a much-loved member of a town's community has been shot down by a parish council, causing anger among many people who knew him. Bambos Tzirki, also known as Paul, died of cancer at the age of 67 in 2020.

He ran The Chippy in Blaby town centre for 33 years, and is remembered fondly as a keen community champion who gave his all to helping the town and its people. On the day of his funeral, crowds lined the streets to pay their respects and say goodbye to the “true icon”.

Paul Hartshorn, councillor for Blaby South, has been trying for two years to get a plaque, paid for by Mr Tzirki’s family, installed in the town centre in his memory. However, Blaby Parish Council will not allow this. Councillor Hartshorn claimed it was because the council feared it “may also receive other, similar requests”. However, that has not been confirmed by the authority. Leicestershire Live has approached the council for a comment, and is awaiting a reply.

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Local residents have denounced the refusal as “shameful” and “shocking”. One said they were “disgusted by the decision”.

“He was such a lovely and helpful person who employed many young people over the years and taught them the value of hard work and integrity,” they added. “Shame on you, parish council.”

Another added: “When a person devotes his life to the prosperity, well being and care of the town he loves, having served the community for four decades and contributing more than all the councillors put together, the very least should be a memorial plaque. This serves as a mark of respect, gratitude and inspiration for future generations.

“If only we had more people like Paul, then the world would be a much better place. Give the man the recognition he deserves. A small gesture for such a large contribution and life devout.”

Around 100 residents lined the high street in Blaby village centre as Paul's hearse passed by.

Coun Hartshorn branded the decision “thoughtless”, saying people were “genuinely very upset” by it. Mr Tzirki was very much loved and respected by the community, he added.

In a post on Facebook, he said: “I fail to understand this decision as you will find it very unlikely any of us will come across such a highly respected man as Paul in our local community for some years to come. Paul had the full respect of the community, evident by the number of people who lined the streets during his funeral, and he often carried out many wonderful acts of kindness.

“I remember seeing him watering the hanging baskets, sweeping the precinct on many occasions, and keeping our village centre neat and tidy. To say I miss him is an understatement and I’m sure many of you will share that sentiment.

“I thought that having him commemorated on one of the benches would be a nice way for us all to remember a man who respected our village and did so much for the community. I hope that Blaby Parish Council will reconsider their decision to better reflect the wishes of the local community that they are elected to serve.”

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