A dedicated rambler has been honoured by having a special walkway in Sandwell Valley named after him. John Scott, aged 76, had a complete surprise when he arrived at the valley to be met by Sandwell's Mayor Councillor Keith Davies and fellow ramblers.

Mr Scott, who lives in Great Barr, was left in total shock when he was told that the route around the Hill House Farm area in the valley would be named after him. He said: "I could not believe it when I got there to see the mayor and fellow ramblers waiting for me. "This is a great honour and I and deeply honoured."

Mr Scott said he joined the Sandwell Ramblers shortly after they group was formed in 1992 and has been a regular walker since then. He is recovering from knee surgery but is making good progress. "I can do the shorter walks and it should not be long until I am back to my best," he added. Mr Scott has led many walking groups around the valley over the years and because of his dedication, rangers and fellow group members decided on the surprise honour.