THE memory of comedienne Victoria Wood is still strong in her hometown a year after her death.

The Prestwich-born actress, who starred in popular TV shows such as dinnerladies, died a year ago today, aged 62, after losing her battle with cancer.

The star’s brother Chris Foote Wood launched the ‘Let’s Do It – Victoria Wood memorial statue appeal’ campaign in August last year, to raise cash to pay for the permanent memorial to the celebrity, which will be sited in Library Gardens in Silver Street.

Generous fans have helped raise more than £24,000 to pay for a life-like statue of star to be installed in Bury.

Fans voted for her memorial statue to represent Bren, her character in the hit comedy show dinnerladies, following an online poll.

The Crowdfunding page attracted 824 supporters who left messages of support and donated £24,420 towards the £30,000 target.

Mr Foote Wood said: “Victoria was loved by millions not only for her unique comedy and her brilliant writing and acting, but also for her modesty and generosity.

“She deserves a permanent memorial where her many fans can visit and pay tribute and also have their selfies taken.

“You can give in confidence that Victoria’s statue will go ahead - I will make sure that all costs are met.”

David Armsbey donated cash towards the appeal and said: “Victoria gave pleasure to millions. The statue will be a fitting tribute in her home town.”

Mary Jenner added: “Victoria Wood used to make me laugh so much that my shoulders ached.

“I remember Kimberley’s Friend in mac and beret when she came to Croydon. A legend, there will never be another one like her.”

Fifteen sculptors have been in touch to express interest in creating the statue.

Peter Kay revealed how Wood played a crucial role in his career, earlier this month.

He said he thought he would not have had the career he has had without Wood’s influence.

Speaking to fellow Boltonian, Sara Cox on BBC Radio 2, Kay shared some thoughts on his career and Wood’s work.

Kay said: “What’s mad is tonight, she’s on after Car Share and what’s weird is I genuinely think that I would not be doing what I’m doing if it weren’t for her.

“It’s weird how everything works out because there’s so many lines in car share that are just not lifted from her stuff, but you know it’s so much an influence when I was growing up watching her, seeing her on TV.”

He spoke fondly about his school days and classmates coming in in the morning and chatting about a new episode of the show.

The Crowdfunding page was closed earlier this month.