Victoria Wood's brother launches memorial statue appeal

VICTORIA Wood's brother has launched a crowdfunding appeal to pay for a statue of the late comedian in Bury.
Fundraising appeal launched to pay for statue of Victoria Wood. Picture: PAFundraising appeal launched to pay for statue of Victoria Wood. Picture: PA
Fundraising appeal launched to pay for statue of Victoria Wood. Picture: PA

Chris Foote Wood, who is also an entertainer, is hoping to raise £20,000 towards the cost.

Writing on his JustGiving online appeal page, entitled Let’s Do It - Victoria Wood Memorial Appeal, the 75-year-old said the idea has the support of Bury council.

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He wrote: “I’ve set up this Crowdfunding site to raise money for a permanent memorial to Victoria to be put up in Bury.

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“This would be a fitting tribute to a hugely talented writer and performer, and would be a magnet for you Victoria Wood fans to visit and have your selfies taken.”

Ms Wood, a multi Bafta award-winning writer, director, actor and comedian, died of cancer at the age of 62 in April.

Although she was born in Prestwich, Lancashire, the family home was in Bury where she lived until leaving for university at the age of 18.

Journalist and writer Mr Foote Wood said the statue could perhaps be in the form of the television moments for which his sibling became best known and loved.

In his appeal message, he cited comic song The Ballad Of Barry And Freda (Let’s Do It).

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Written by Ms Wood, it details the attempts of a frustrated housewife to convince her husband to get in the mood for romance.

He also mentioned Kimberley’s Friend.

The fondly-remembered character, who wore a yellow beret and overcoat, would ask: “I’m looking for me friend. ‘Ave you seen ‘er?”

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Talking about the memorial, Mr Foote Wood said: “My idea is to have a lifelike statue of Victoria, either seated at the piano (Let’s Do It!) or as Kimberley’s friend in mac and beret (Ave you seen ‘er? sketch), but the final form will be decided by a public vote from a short-list of ideas.”

He also said he is open to other suggestions for the statue from fans.

Mr Foote Wood added: “In due course, we hope to have fund-raising packs and ideas to help you raise cash.

“And if you do hold any fund-raising events, invite me along - I will come if I can.”

Visit wwww.crowdfunding.justgiving.com for Chris Foote Wood’s appeal.

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