A MEMORIAL bench for Bradford's so-called Jesus Man is in the pipeline - and people are invited to make suggestions for its location.

Work to establish a lasting memorial to Geoffrey Brindley has been ongoing since his death last August.

Initially, social media campaigns were started to build a statue for the 88-year-old, who was well-known in the district and was regularly spotted walking the streets in a brown robe and sandals, with a satchel around his neck.

He was so well-known that a website was set-up dedicated to listing sightings of him.

Facebook pages - entitled 'Statue for Bradford Jesus Man' and 'Build a Statue for Bradford Jesus Man' - attracted thousands of 'likes' as tributes poured in for Mr Brindley.

Now, a close friend of Mr Brindley has said he would be more than happy to see a bench placed somewhere in his memory.

"We want a bench for Geoffrey Brindley," said the friend, who wants to remain anonymous.

"A bench would be easier than a statue. But where should it go? We have got some funds and I have spoken to Bradford Council, so we need to find somewhere for it to go, somewhere permanent.

"We want this bench to keep his memory alive. If people have got somewhere appropriate they can suggest, then let us know and we will consider their suggestions."

The friend said suggestions so far included outside the old Bradford Library, somewhere in City Park, or at the top of Carr Lane in Wrose.

"The view from Carr Lane is absolutely spectacular," said the friend. "But I am open to suggestions. We have got a bench provider lined up and it will be made from some sort of recycled material, which Geoffrey would have approved of. It looks comfortable and we can put a nice plaque on there.

"Everyone I have spoken to is in agreement about the bench - there have been no negative comments.

"We just need some suggestions - sensible suggestions - for a location."

Mr Brindley died at Bradford Royal Infirmary on August 24, 11 days after suffering a stroke at his home in Baildon.

Thousands of people paid tribute to Mr Brindley and a book of condolence was set up at Bradford Cathedral where his funeral took place last October.

The Telegraph & Argus reported in 1960 how Mr Brindley, then 33, gave up his job as a machinist to live in a cave near Settle in order to receive a message from God.

He spent 12 days in the cave before setting off back to Bradford wearing a habit.

Mr Brindley, who was also known as the Airedale Monk, was taken ill on Thursday, August 13, at his home in Baildon where he fell down the stairs.

He was found by the friend he has shared the property with for the last 25 years.

For the time being, suggestions for a location for the bench can be sent to rhys.thomas@telegraphandargus.co.uk.