Late comic among eight honoured with blue plaques

A late comedian and broadcaster is among eight people to be recognised with a blue plaque in a county.

West Northamptonshire Council said Stanley Unwin, who died in 2002 and was known for his inventive comic language "Unwinese" was chosen from among 60 nominations submitted by members of the public.

The Reform UK-controlled council said the blue plaques recognised "people who made a lasting contribution to the area's culture, community and innovation".

The latest plaques honour a diverse group of figures whose achievements span more than four centuries of local history, from philanthropists and pioneering engineers, to political leaders, artists and entertainers.

The other seven recipients are:

• Wenman Joseph Bassett-Lowke (1877–1953) - a pioneering model engineer, industrialist and Labour councillor associated with 78 Derngate
• Alfred Cockerill (1842–1927) - a philanthropist and supporter of sport who helped secure the future of Northamptonshire County Cricket Club
• James Gribble (1868–1934) - a trade unionist, socialist activist and founder of the Pioneer Co-operative Boot Works
• Joseph George Grose (1861–1939) - an innovative cycle maker, motor manufacturer and civic leader who helped shape Northampton's transport industry
• Jane Leeson (c.1560–1648) - a philanthropist who founded a free school for poor children in Abthorpe in 1642
• Harriett May Nicholls (1884–1965) - a social reformer and Northampton's first woman to serve a full term as Mayor
• Tom Osborne Robinson (1904–1976) - an influential theatrical designer and artist who worked with theatres across the UK while remaining rooted in Northampton

They were selected by a panel of local historians and community representatives "against strict criteria", including a clear connection to West Northamptonshire and a demonstrable contribution to the area's history and culture.

All of the plaques will be displayed at an official launch event at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery on 17 March.

James Petter, the council's cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure, said the blue plaque project showed "the strength of local pride in our heritage".

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