‘The Baroness’ comes home to Blackburn

A sneak peek of the Barbara Castle statue, showcasing her involvement in the Equal Pay Act

The launch event takes place on Saturday October 9, a few days after what would have been Barbara’s 111th birthday.

The statue has been funded mainly by individuals and organisations both locally and nationally, with additional open space contributions from a recent private housing development in the town centre.

Barbara Castle served as Blackburn MP from 1945-1979, an MEP for Greater Manchester from 1979-1989, becoming a lifetime peer in 1990, and remained active in politics until her death in 2002.

Instrumental in the Equal Pay Act 1970 and championing women’s rights, she also introduced the Carer’s Allowance, as well as road safety legislation that led to the introduction of seatbelts and breathalyser tests.

Councillor Maureen Bateson, who has been supporting the project throughout, said: “Barbara Castle was a trailblazer for women everywhere. She also represents all that’s best about Blackburn – real grit and determination and succeeding, often against the odds.

“The statue will help us honour all that she did and will ensure that her memory lives on, inspiring future generations.

“We hope it will draw visitors to the town and also address the distinct lack of statues of inspirational women in the county and right across the country, while celebrating the area’s rich heritage.

“I’d like to thank everyone that has donated so far to help bring ‘the Baroness’ to Blackburn.”

Her astonishing 56-year-long career was even captured in recent years as part of hit Netflix series ‘The Crown’ and the BBC’s ‘The Trial of Christine Keeler’. She was also a key character in the film Made in Dagenham, which featured Barbara’s campaigning.

The campaign has also been publicly endorsed by actor Maxine Peake – known for her roles in Black Mirror, The Theory of Everything and the BBC classic Dinnerladies ­– as well as Nigel Cole, director of Made in Dagenham.

The statue, which is now completed and ready to be unveiled, has been created by sculptor Sam Holland and is being stored ahead of the grand unveiling.

There’s still an opportunity for people keen to contribute to the project to donate to the statue fund – click here for more information: Civica Payments Portal – Products & Services catalogue (civicaepay.co.uk)