Victoria Wood tribute in Bury completed by brother from Barnard Castle

The much-loved comedienne, actor and writer Victoria died of cancer aged 62 in 2016. Last Friday, May 19, would have been her 70th birthday.

Writer and actor Chris Foote-Wood, from Barnard Castle, initiated and raised much of the money for the statue of Victoria in her home town of Bury.

An information board listing the star’s many achievements has now been added. It features several colour photographs of the multi-talented star including one with one of the several Baftas she won for her performing, writing and acting.

Chris Foote-Wood with the new information board listing his sister's achievements (Image: CHRIS FOOTE-WOOD)

Victoria’s statue, created by internationally famous Yorkshire sculptor Graham Ibbeson, was commissioned by a committee made up of Mr Foote-Wood, Victoria’s literary estate and Bury Council.

It was unveiled four years ago by Mr Foote-Wood and long-time Victoria Wood collaborator Ted Robbins in front of a large crowd.

Ted Robbins, left, and Chris Foote-Wood, right, at the unveiling of the statue (Image: PRESS ASSOCIATION)

Explaining the need for an information board, Mr Foote-Wood said: “It was agreed that the statue and plinth should be as simple and uncluttered as possible. As Victoria had achieved so much in her life, the more detailed narrative was left until later.

“It has taken longer than expected to put up the board, partly due to Covid restrictions, but I am very pleased this last element is now in place. Victoria’s statue has attracted thousands of visitors to Bury. From now on this visit will be a much richer experience for her many fans.”

Victoria Wood, pictured here in 2008 after receiving her CBE at Buckingham Palace (Image: PRESS ASSOCIATION)

Read more:

• Victoria Wood statue unveiled in home town after appeal started by her brother
• Read the postcard a six-year-old Victoria Wood sent to her North-East brother
• Why this man is making a poignant journey to Belgium to dedicate a new gravestone to his great-uncle

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Councillor Charlotte Morris, Bury Council cabinet member for culture and the economy, said: “Victoria was loved across the world for her comedy, acting and writing, and we are proud to call her one of our own. She is much missed, but will never be forgotten.”

Mr Foote-Wood added: “ Victoria's statue and information board could have not happened without the support of Bury Council and its members and officers.

"With the help of Victoria's estate and the public who generously donated to my crowdfunding appeal, we have together created a fitting tribute to my much-loved and hugely talented sister who gave so much pleasure to millions."