Calls for statue to honour Doreen Lofthouse

Residents say Mrs Lofthouse, who died yesterday aged 91, did so much for Fleetwood that she should have a statue of her own in the town or some other monument.

Many on social media said Mrs Lofthouse, a great benefactor for the town, should be recognised in some way.

Margaret Daniels, chairman of Fleetwood Civic Society, agreed it would be fitting for a lasting tribute to be set up in the town.

The Society was a key member of the group which organised the statue of Fleetwood's founder, Sir Peter Hesketh-Fleetwood, which was unveiled in the town on May 6 2018.

Mrs Lofthouse made a generous donation to that statue.

Margaret Daniels said: "Provided the Lofthouse family was happy about it, I think it would be good for her to be recognised in some way.

"It could be a statue, a plaque or having something major named after her.

"If there were serious discussions I'm sure the Civic Society could be involved.

"There has been a lot of talk on social media about having a statue for her."

Some residents on the Gazette and Fleetwood Weekly News Facebook sites think it would be a good idea.

Carol Griffiths posted; "We should have something made in her honour for all she has given to our town and its people."

Sheryl Beckett said: "I agree."

And Linzi Foster- Nicholson said: "She should have a statue in the town."

Mrs Lofthouse was recognised by being granted the Freedom of the Borough of Wyre and was also awarded the OBE.