ONE year on from the death of Inspector Morse author Colin Dexter plans are moving forward for a statue in his honour.

The author, whose 13 Morse novels inspired the Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour TV series, died last year on March 21, aged 86.

Following his death the Inspector Morse Society agreed to launch plans for a commemorative statue in Diamond Place, Summertown.

Members of the society launched a £50,000 memorial fund to cover the cost of the statue and are still seeking donations.

Dr Antony Richards, chairman of the society, is hoping the statue will be in place by 2020 as part of a redevelopment of Diamond Place, and has lined up sculptor Alex Wenham.

The memorial fund was launched on the website inspector-morse.com.

The statue is expected to incorporate a crossword puzzle as Mr Dexter enjoyed setting and completing crosswords.

Chris Sullivan, who runs a Morse, Lewis and Endeavour blog, said: “Though many of you may not have read Colin’s novels and short stories we should all give thanks to the man. If not for Colin’s novels there would be none of our favourite TV shows. No Morse. No Lewis and no Endeavour.

“Colin charmed us not only through his books, lectures and appearances at book festivals but also with his adorable cameo appearances in the three TV shows.”