DON'T Stop Them Now because Feltham councillors want to install a memorial to rock legend Freddie Mercury in the town centre.

The Queen frontman lived in Gladstone Avenue for almost 10 years and, after years of wrangling, councillors have finally agreed to recognise the success of Feltham's most famous export.

The extravagant performer, who died in 1991, settled in Feltham in 1964 after fleeing a civil war in Zanzibar, Tanzania with his family when he was only 17. He studied art at Isleworth Polytechnic, which is now West Thames College.

And now visitors to Feltham could face an immediate reminder of the town's place in rock history with a Hollywood-style star adorned with Freddie's name on the pavement in the High Street.

Hounslow Council's West Area committee has set aside £2,000 of its £9,000 civic improvement for the 2ft by 2ft plaque, which they are hoping to install in the next few months with Freddie Mercury day of celebration.

Cllr Peter Hill – a huge Queen fan who is leading the campaign to honour the man born Farrokh Bulsara – said: “It's not often you get someone who is world-famous living in Feltham and what we want to do is recognise success. If you are measuring success then there aren't many more successful people than Freddie.

“Hopefully it will inspire people and we will find some more people to remember in this way.”

Shoppers in Feltham High Street last week had mixed feelings about the memorial, with some thinking the money could be better spent elsewhere.

Gary Newington, 43, said: “I think it's a great idea. I'd much prefer they spend money on things that are going to improve the town rather than boost their own wages.

“A lot of people don't know Freddie Mercury came from round here and what better advert could you have for Feltham? The man's a legend – I reckon we should build a statue of him.”

However, Sonia Dickinson, 31, believes the money should be spent on schools. “I'm not sure the middle of the credit crunch is the best time to be splashing out on luxuries like this. I know it's not a huge amount but think how many books for schools that could buy,” she said.

Do you think it's money well spent? Who else should Hounslow Council be honouring? Get in touch....