Bury: New information board to honour Victoria Wood

The information board which honours the life of comedian Victoria Wood was installed beside her statue in Bury town centre yesterday, Thursday. 

Victoria, who was born in Prestwich in 1953, wrote and starred in a number of successful television programmes including sitcom Dinnerladies and comedy sketch series As Seen on TV.

The comedian died with cancer in 2016 aged 62 and today, (May 19) would have been her birthday.

The board, which was sponsored by her brother Chris Foote-Wood, gives details of the stellar career of “Bury’s award-winning comedy genius.” 

A new information board has been installed honouring the life of Bury comedian Victoria Wood (Image: Chris Foote-Wood)

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It outlines her life and work and 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.

Victoria’s statue, created by Barnsley-born sculptor Graham Ibbeson, was unveiled four years ago by Chris and long-time Victoria collaborator Ted Robbins in front of a large crowd.

Chris initiated the scheme and raised much of the cost. The statue was commissioned by a committee made up of Chris, Victoria’s literary estate and Bury Council.

Explaining the need for an information board, Chris said: “It was agreed that the statue and plinth should be as 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.

The new information board was unveiled on what would have been Victoria Wood's 70th birthday (Image: Chris Foote-Wood)

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“Victoria’s statue opposite the Library and Art Gallery has attracted hundreds if not thousands of visitors to the town. From now on this visit will be a much richer experience for Victoria’s many fans.”

Chris continued: “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 Literary 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."

Cllr 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.”