Restored memorial back on its plinth

A memorial commemorating one of Telford's most famous sons, which was left hanging on the edge of its plinth, was today back in place in time for its 100th anniversary.

See also: Damaged monument is back in place

Councillors and residents have welcomed the return of the Captain Matthew Webb monument, which a councillor described as a "symbol" of Dawley. The memorial was removed from the High Street in February after it was hit by a delivery lorry.

But since then it has been dismantled, repair-ed, cleaned and reassembled before being lifted back into position yesterday.

Dawley councillor Vic Tonks said: "It's a pity that it took an accident to get this memorial brought back to life. The refurbishment is brilliant and I hope that everybody will now appreciate the monument and all it stands for.

"It's an historic part of Dawley and it should be cherished. I think they have done a good job on it."

He said a lot of people had been upset by the damage and had been asking when the monument was coming back.

Mr Tonks added: "It's a symbol of Dawley."

Fellow Dawley councillor Adrian Williams said: "It's nice to see an old friend back.

"It was in sore need of repair and they have made a damn good job of it.

"It's nice to know it didn't have to leave Telford."

The monument was originally unveiled by Captain Webb's brother on October 23, 1909.

Celebrations are planned in Dawley to mark the occasion this month.

Malcolm Peel, of Dawley Bank, a member of Dawley History Group, said an exhibition of photographs and information about Captain Webb was being held in Dawley Library in the week beginning October 19 to commemorate the centenary.

Mr Peel, 66, added that the monument, which used to be used as a water fountain, had moved several times in Dawley during its lifetime.

He said he was pleased to see it back in place.

The work has been carried out by Halesfield firm, Eura Conservation Ltd.

Nick Morris, senior conservator, said that as part of the work they had painted the lettering on the Portland stone monument, which had become difficult to read, as well as repairing a bowl on the side, which was damaged by the vehicle.

He added that they had spent a few weeks on the project.