200 names added to wall of fame

Originally decorated by 100 names, the wall around the Iron Tree and community garden off Station Road has proved so popular that South Ribble Council has been inundated with requests for more names to be added.

Some of those who were chosen were a couple whose garden has raised more than £16,000 for charity.

For the last 18 years, gardeners Jim and Dorothy Martin, of St Saviour’s Close have held open days at their home in aid of the Children’s Society.

“It’s lovely to have a plaque dedicated to us,” said Dorothy, 70.

“Jim and I have always just wanted to do our bit. We got the idea for an open garden when Alan Titchmarsh encouraged people to do it about 20 years ago and we’ve done it for years now.”

The couple, who were nominated by their daughter Sandra, have also volunteered at St Savour’s Church for more than 20 years and Dorothy volunteers with the Mothers’ Union.

Another “true Brigger” added to the wall is Lily Barker, who died in 2001, aged 82. Nominated by her granddaughter Julie Barker, Lily lived in Bamber Bridge all her life – first in Collins Road, then Station Road.

Julie said: “Many people knew and loved her. She was a keen baker and would spend hours in the kitchen baking for other people.

“Her speciality was apple pie. It was a standing joke when she passed away about who had her pie dish as she would see people in the street and ask: ‘Have you got my pie dish?’.

Councillor Phil Smith said: “It’s been wonderful to see the town really getting behind this project to honour its residents and give them a place in Brig history.”