Plans approved... if the public fund it

Bobby Ball could get a statue in his hometown, after councillors agreed to set the wheels in motion.

Fylde Council, which covers Lytham, near Blackpool, has agreed it would be ‘fitting’ to erect the monument outside the town’s theatre to commemorate the comedian, who died in October at the age of 76.

However, there are still hurdles, not least the fact that the council has committed no money to the likeness, which it hopes will be funded by fans.

Ball, who died in  Blackpool Victoria hospital after being tested positive for Covid-19, was a patron of Lowther Pavilion.

This week, Fylde councillors passed a motion which read:  ‘The council notes with sadness the recent passing of Bobby Ball, who brought laughter to millions over many years, and was well-known and well-loved in and about Lytham, where he chose to make his home.

‘To mark and celebrate his life, it would be fitting for a statue of Bobby to be erected in Lowther Gardens, supported by public donations and with the backing of the council.’

Tim Lince, chairman of Lowther Gardens Trust, told the Blackpool Gazette: ‘He is a great, great loss to the Lowther. The volunteers, the staff and everyone else would like to see something done to honour his memory.

‘This area of the coast has done so much for British showbusiness, going all the way back to George Formby, and I think it’s very important to remember what they have done for us.’

Ball already features on Blackpool’s Comedy Carpet, which includes his catchphrase ‘Rock on, Tommy’.

Council officers will now set up a task force to take the idea of a statue forward. 

This week, Chortle also reported that ITV would be airing an extended tribute to Ball in its Christmas TV schedules.

Published: 9 Dec 2020