Victoria Wood to be celebrated with Bury statue

Just over a year ago the world was rocked by the death of Victoria Wood, the much-loved comedian best known for her uproarious stand-up, comedy songs, and sitcoms such as Dinnerladies and Acorn Antiques.

Plans have been announced, according to the BBC, for a life-sized bronze statue of Wood to be installed in Bury, Wood’s hometown in Greater Manchester. Graham Ibbeson, the sculptor who made the Eric Morecambe statue in Morecambe, will design and create the monument.

The statue is being paid for by a crowdfunding appeal set up by Wood's brother Chris Foote Wood. “I am very pleased indeed that we have been able to obtain the services of Graham Ibbeson,” he said. “It was his statue of Eric Morecambe that first inspired me to try to get something similar for my multi-talented and much-loved sister Victoria.”

Ibbeson commented on the statue, saying that he was honoured to lead the project. “[Wood’s] unique humour was a product of northern roots – unpretentious, accessible, and well observed,” he said. “I will try to mirror all these qualities in my sculpture by trying to capture the warmth of her character and personality, and also reflecting the nation’s affection (and indeed mine) for her unique talent.”

Read our tribute to Victoria Wood from last year.