Call for new statue honouring NHS heroes in Walsall

The idea is the brainchild of Walsall Tory councillor Adam Hicken, who says said a modern day statue could stand alongside the existing monument built to honour pioneering nurse Sister Dora.

She is celebrated in the town for her work in treating victims of smallpox in the 19th century.

He pitched the idea at a Conservative group meeting and he has been backed by his colleagues.

Councillor Hicken said he and the council’s deputy leader Adrian Andrew are holding early talks, looking into details such as how it would be funding and potential planning considerations.

At present the proposal is for it to be erected next to Sister Dora’s statue currently based in the town centre.

Councillor Hicken, who represents Willenhall North ward said: “In the same way Sister Dora treated the people of Walsall through the smallpox pandemic almost 150 years ago, we have seen incredible sacrifices and dedication by our modern-day healthcare and community heroes.

“Medical staff throughout the NHS and those in the community have put their own lives at risk to save others.

“I think that it would be fitting to recognise this bravery by erecting a new statue dedicated to all our healthcare workers.

“But I’d like to see it not just to those working in the Manor or just NHS staff. I think there is probably thousands who’ve helped in the community, from people in care homes to volunteers delivering food parcels.

“It would be nice to also show respect to them as well

“This should be placed for all to see, possibly next to the existing statue of Sister Dora in Walsall town centre.”

Sister Dora was born Dorothy Wyndlow Pattison in Yorkshire in 1832 and was sent to work at Walsall’s old cottage hospital in 1865.

She remained in the town for the rest of her life and when Walsall was struck by smallpox in 1875, she is said to have treated thousands of patients in six months.

After developing breast cancer in 1877, she died on Christmas Eve the following year aged just 46.