Gracie statue to be unveiled in Town Hall Square

Dame Gracie Fields in her prime

A bronze statue of Dame Gracie Fields is to be unveiled in Town Hall Square, Rochdale

The unveiling, on 18 September, will mark the culmination of three days of activities to celebrate the life of the Rochdale-born singer, actress and comedienne - who was rumoured to be the highest paid actress in the world in the 1930s. 

The erection of the statue of Gracie, close to the town hall, which was the focal point of her many return visits to Rochdale, will coincide with the completion of the Gracie Fields trail.

The Gracie Fields Appreciation Society and the Rotary Club of Rochdale East have worked to help develop the statue and the trail.

Frank Hauxwell, of the Rotary Club of Rochdale East, said: "We are looking forward to all the events planned for the weekend of 16-18 September and to Gracie finally receiving the recognition she deserves."

Sebastian Lassandro, from the Gracie Fields Appreciation Society, said: "It's fantastic that the town's greatest daughter is to be remembered forever with such a stunning tribute and an exciting weekend in September. This is something I am proud to have been involved with all along the way, helping that 'little Lancashire town' honour Our Gracie."

The statue was designed by Suffolk sculptor, Sean Hedges-Quinn.