A LEGENDARY Black Country businessman who was instrumental in the development of the Merry Hill shopping centre has received the freedom of Dudley.

Dr Roy Richardson, a familiar face in the business world, is now a member of the Dudley borough business champions group, which helps forge closer links with both the local council and the business community to help boost the economy.

The 88-year-old, who received the freedom of Sandwell in December, was presented with his Dudley freedom scroll by the mayor, Councillor Alan Taylor, at a special dinner at Dudley Town Hall.

Cllr Taylor said: “The freedom of Dudley borough is a huge honour and is steeped in history.

“Roy Richardson has achieved spectacular success throughout his lifetime. Despite becoming a recognised face and name across the business world, he has always stayed close and true to his Dudley roots.

“He has been a champion for the borough, and the wider Black Country, across the globe.

“I’m delighted we can highlight the work Roy has done, and the many achievements he has made, in this way.”

Roy joins a long list of big borough names to receive the honour, including world tennis star Jordanne Whiley and comedian Lenny Henry.

The move to bestow Roy – who was born on April 25, 1930, in Dudley, alongside twin brother Don, just half a mile from their iconic Merry Hill development – with the honour was approved by borough councillors at a meeting of the full council last year.

Roy and Don, who sadly died in September 2007, at the age of 77, both joined their father’s business in Oldbury at the age of 14 and enjoyed stellar careers in the business world.