Brother of Victoria Wood launches appeal to get statue in her honour

Victoria Wood's brother has launched a crowdfunding campaign to pay for a statue of the late comedian in her home town of Bury.

Chris Foote Wood, 75, has already received support for the idea from the local council and his is hoping to raise £20,000 towards the cost.

Writing on his JustGiving page entitled Let's Do It - Victoria Wood Memorial Appeal, he said: "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."

Chris Foote Wood is hoping to raise £20,000 towards the cost of a statue of his late sister. Credit: PA

Journalist and writer Mr Foote Wood said the statue could represent one of Wood's television moments or best known characters.

He 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."

Bafta award-winning Wood 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.