Plaque unveiled to honour groundbreaking sculptor of war memorial in Lancaster

The plaque was unveiled on Monday by Cat Smith MP

A plaque has been unveiled to honour a pioneering creator of a war memorial in Lancaster.

Jennie Delahunt created the Westfield Memorial at the entrance to Westfield War Memorial Village on West Road.

Cat Smith, MP for Lancaster & Wyre, unveiled a plaque in her memory at the War Memorial Village on Monday.

Jennie (1876-1954) was a sculptor and art teacher at the Storey Institute and Lancaster Girls Grammar School.

The bronze memorial, which was cast in 1925 and unveiled in 1926, depicts one soldier supporting another whilst offering him a drink.

Photo: Lancaster Civic Vision

"It was an honour and a privilege to unveil this plaque at Westfield War Memorial Village," said Ms Smith after unveiling the green heritage plaque.

"Jennie Delahunt sounded like an extraordinary woman who was passionate about her craft as a sculptor.

"The memorial she created in the village is incredibly special and unique, and it is only right that the woman behind this remarkable work is recognised and remembered forever.

"Thank you to Mandy and the Westfield War Memorial Village Trustees for inviting me to unveil the plaque today.

"I would also like to thank everyone who dedicated their time to researching Jennie’s life and work, and to ensuring that her important contribution to the village is recognised."

The plaque says the sculpture is a "rare example of a First World War figurative memorial sculpted by a woman".

City heritage group Lancaster Civic Vision has campaigned to erect plaques to commemorate some of the many Lancaster women who have made important changes for the good of our area.

Previous plaques have honoured Sister Aine Cox, founder of St John's Hospice, and Janet Raby and Beatrice Parkinson, the last female lighthouse keepers in the UK.

The Westfield Memorial Village provides housing and support to the Armed Forces community.

Have you got a local news story? Email us now, newsdesk@beyondradio.co.uk

Join our free WhatsApp channel and get the latest news direct to your phone:

More from Local News

On Air Now The More Music Workday 10:00am - 3:00pm
Now Playing
Wake Me Up Avicii Download
Recently Played

Recently Played Songs