Local HEROES

Local Find out about the commemorative plaques that grace our UK buildings

- SALLY ROBINSON

Glance up when you’re out walking in British cities, and you’ll often see a blue or other commemorative plaque honouring a person or place of interest.

The idea of installing plaques was the brainchild of William Ewart MP, who first suggested it to the House of Commons in 1863. Four years later, the first plaque appeared in London. It was dedicated to the poet Lord Byron, under the aegis of the Royal Society of Arts, which went on to install many more.

This idea was later embraced by councils, civic trusts and other organisations, which run similar schemes around the country.

Fine vintage

Some of the oldest surviving plaques are in London. One from 1867 commemorates Napoleon III at 1C King Street in Westminster, and one from 1870 marks poet John Dryden, at 43 Gerrard Street.

Made by hand

English Heritage blue plaques are handmade by either Frank and Sue Ashworth (pictured above), now in their late 80s, in Fowey, Cornwall, or by potter Ned Heywood, 75, at his studio in Chepstow. The Ashworths have made more than 300 since they started in 1984.

Each plaque must be made to exact specifications – 495mm in diameter and 50mm thick. This year, Ned, assisted by Julia Land, will make eight for English Heritage, as well as 20 for other organisations.