FORMER Welwyn Hatfield Times chief photographer Denis Williams will be remembered this week with a bench dedicated in his memory along – and new exhibition of his work.

Friends, relatives and former colleagues will meet in the town centre on Thursday to see Welwyn Hatfield mayor Howard Morgan unviel a new memorial bench in memory of Mr Williams – who died late last year.

Fittingly, the bench which will be placed opposite the WHT’s offices on Howardsgate. Anyone is welcome to attend the 5pm ceremony.

It is the culmination of a successful fundraising campaign by Tricia Gauduchon, a friend of Mr Williams, who managed to collect more than �500 for the memorial – �250 of which was donated by the WHT.

Mrs Gauduchon said: “Denis would be over the moon!

“I’m just so grateful to the WHT and everyone that’s donated the money that’s brought it to fruition, and look forward to the ribbon cutting.”

Following the dedication friends and relatives will be invited to attend a private viewing of a new exhibition of Mr Williams’ photos, before it opens to the public the following day.

Sponsored by Welwyn Hatfield Council, with funding from the WGC 90th anniversary fund, In Black and White... the work of Denis Williams is being curated by George Woodcraft of the New Maynard Gallery.

Dr Dennis Lewis, a friend of Mr Williams, said: “This is a great way of celebrating Denis’ 30 plus years in the town which resulted in some magnificent photos, many of which will be on display at the New Maynard Gallery during the exhibition.”

The exhibition is open whenever Campus West is open, and will run until Saturday, October 9.

For more information, call Campus West on 01707 326109.