FANS of Prestwich-born star Victoria Wood have dished up a vote in favour of a memorial statue depicting her character from the comedy dinnerladies.

The comedienne’s brother, Chris Foote Wood, launched his Let’s Do It campaign in July to erect a life-size statue of the entertainer in Bury.

And an online poll was set up by Bury Council asking the public which of Victoria’s characters they wanted depicting.

The poll closed at midday on Monday with 60 percent of voters opting for Bren, Victoria’s character in the television comedy series set in a canteen.

The remaining voters wanted to see her portrayed as another of her comedy characters, Kimberley’s friend.

Mr Foote Wood is aiming to raise £30,000 to pay for the permanent memorial to the celebrity, which will be sited at Library Gardens in Silver Street.

The Crowdfunding page set up by Mr Foote Wood has attracted 763 supporters so far who have left messages of encouragement and donated £22,443 towards the target.

The actress died in April, aged 62, after losing her battle with cancer.

Mr Foote Wood, who was raised in Bury with Victoria and their two sisters, said: “I think people will like the statue.

“It combines Victoria in real life but also reminds us of one of the great comedy characters she portrayed.

“It’s the right result and people will instantly recognise her, which is great.”

So far 15 sculptors have been in touch to express interest in creating the statue.

Mr Foote Wood added: “We’ve narrowed it down to three sculptors and one will be chosen and announced in the not too distant future.

“We’re on track to unveil in May or June next year and I’m really pleased with how everything’s going.”

It is hoped the statue will be a focal point for Victoria’s fans, creating a fresh tourist attraction for Bury similar to the iconic Eric Morecambe statue on the promenade in Morecambe.

Victoria’s brother hopes the £30,000 target will be reached in the near future so that work on creating the statue can begin.

He said: “We’re doing well so far although there is no guarantee that the sculpture will not cost more than the target.

“If that’s the case then I am willing to make up the remainder.

“I was very keen to have the public raise the cash so it’s something which belongs to them.

“I want this statue to belong to the British public, to Bury and to Victoria’s fans.”

To donate to Mr Foote Wood’s “Let’s Do It – Victoria Wood memorial statue appeal” go to tinyurl.com/letsdoitforvictoria.