Published Friday 1 March 2019 at 14:05
Barbara Castle’s memory will be a key focus in Blackburn with Darwen’s build up to International Women’s Day on Friday 8 March .
The Council has launched a campaign to build a statue of Baroness Castle to celebrate the contribution she made to the borough, which she served as MP for 34 years, and the country as a whole.
The statue will be made in high quality bronze and stand proudly in Jubilee Square, where Barbara would have often passed on her constituency business.
The aim is to have a celebratory unveiling on 6 October 2020, on what would have been her 110th birthday.
Barbara’s influence as an inspirational woman will also be celebrated in the run-up to International Women’s Day.
Inspiring messages and achievements will feature on the borough’s digital screens and bus shelters.
There will be other events supporting International Women’s Day across Blackburn with Darwen.
Blackburn Youth Zone’s campaign ‘Strong Sisters’ will explore the heritage of successful women throughout history with the aim of inspiring young women in Blackburn and Darwen today.
Those who knew Barbara are being encouraged to come forward with their memories and any memorabilia they might have.
Members of the public are invited to contribute to the cost of the statue via gofundme.com/BarbaraCastle where you can leave a donation.
The creation is expected to become a national tourist attraction and a valuable addition to the borough’s collection of art.
If you would like to leave a larger donation or want to share details of memorabilia or special memories, contact Julia Simpson at julia.simpson@blackburn.gov.uk or call 01254 588598.