The beloved TV star Fred Dibnah, celebrated for his steeplejack skills and passion for Britain's industrial heritage, has been dishonoured as his memorial in Bolton remains damaged and neglected for eight months.
Locals and fans are outraged that the tribute to the iconic broadcaster, who passed away in 2004, has been left in a state of disrepair after vandals struck earlier this year. The memorial, a bronze statue depicting Dibnah in his trademark flat cap, was reportedly damaged in an act of mindless vandalism.
Community Demands Action
Residents and admirers of the late television personality have expressed their frustration over the lack of progress in restoring the monument. Many have taken to social media to voice their disappointment, calling for immediate repairs to honour Dibnah's legacy.
"It's a disgrace," said one local. "Fred was a national treasure, and this is how we remember him? The council needs to step up."
A Legacy Left in Limbo
Fred Dibnah became a household name in the 1980s and 1990s through his BBC documentaries, where he showcased Britain's industrial past with unmatched enthusiasm. His memorial in Bolton, erected in 2008, has since been a pilgrimage site for fans.
Council officials have acknowledged the complaints but cite "bureaucratic delays" and "funding issues" as reasons for the hold-up. However, critics argue that the prolonged neglect reflects a broader disregard for local heritage.
As the months pass, the question remains: when will Fred Dibnah's memorial finally be restored to its former glory?
