Plans for statue in South London

Plans have been announced for a statue of Spike Milligan in the South London borough of Lewisham.

Graham Norton, Jack Dee and London Mayor Ken Livingstone have givn their support for the idea.

Though born in India, Milligan was bought up in Honor Oak, and worked in warehouses in the area before joining the army.

Green Party councillor Darren Johnson is now pushing Lewisham council to apply for lottery cash to help erect the monument.

He told the local News Shopper paper: "Spike Milligan is a well-remembered figure and it would be nice to bring some public art to Lewisham town centre.

"I am disappointed Lewisham Council hasn't given formal backing to the idea but they have promised to get in touch with Spike's relatives.

Published: 19 Jan 2004