Sir – No it’s not another plot line for EastEnders but a plea to get the statue of Queen Victoria, currently isolated in Abingdon’s Abbey Gardens, back to its rightful position in the Market Place.
And what better time to do it than in The Queen’s Jubilee Year — and to mark the 125th anniversary of the statue being presented to the town back in June 1887 in celebration of Queen Victoria’s own Jubilee.
The statue would be a fantastic centrepiece to the currently barren area facing the restored County Hall and its unveiling — perhaps by a member of the Royal Family — would be a great feature of Abingdon’s celebrations. Naturally it would need protecting but the move could be funded by public subscription with the donor’s name being cast into wrought iron pillars surrounding the statue.
With signs at last of new thinking in reviving Abingdon’s fortunes what better symbol could there be to create a new tourist attraction and enhancement to the town for its citizens? With all eyes on Britain in 2012, it would also be a wonderful opportunity to gain some valuable publicity highlighting the town’s assets around the world. June is not very far away, so come on Abingdon let’s get Victoria moving!
Mike Gould, Abingdon
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