Firm may engineer tribute

12:13pm Tuesday 1st January 2008

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ROLLS-ROYCE could help to create a statue in Knutsford of one of Britain's greatest engineers.

The company has supported plans to erect a lasting tribute to Sir Henry Royce in Regent Street.

"We believe it's a good idea and are considering how we might get involved at this stage," said Helen Bishop, head of community relations.

Michele Hill, who lives in Regent Street, called for statues of Henry Royce and Elizabeth Gaskell to be erected in the town.

Ms Hill said the sculptures would attract more visitors to Knutsford and improve the look of its newest street.

Rolls-Royce's London-based bosses backed the idea, but said they would have to study the details.

They have now asked Ms Hill and the Knutsford Guardian to provide more information about the plan and how much it would cost.

"We would need to know about the specifics of it," said Mrs Bishop.

Henry Royce moved to the newly-built Brae Cottage in Legh Road, Knutsford, in 1898.

The engineer often worked on his inventions in the cellar until the early hours.

On May 4 1904 Sir Henry met Charles Rolls at the Midland Hotel in Manchester and a successful partnership was born.

Anne Smith and her husband James now live at the house in Legh Road.

They believe Knutsford should erect a statue of Sir Henry because so many enthusiasts already visit Brae Cottage. "Sometimes I see people wandering around the garden," said Mrs Smith.

"People often ask if they can take a picture of their car in the drive."

Ms Hill knows the artist who created the statue of Beatles legend John Lennon at Liverpool airport.

She believes he could help to create similar sculptures for Knutsford.

Artist John McKenna also said he could create a statue for between £25,000 and £50,000, depending on the size.

Ms Hill wanted a statue of Elizabeth Gaskell - the author of Cranford - to be erected in Regent Street.

But Matthew Mooney, who runs the Belle Époque in King Street, believes the town already has a fitting tribute.

He said the Gaskell Memorial Tower, which rises above the restaurant, was all Knutsford needed.

"How can any sane person say we should put £50,000 towards a statue when we have one glowing monument to Elizabeth Gaskell already?" he said.