Donations ensure makeover for statue of hero Wilberforce

The statue of anti-slavery campaigner William Wilberforce, which stands outside Wilberforce House Museum in High Street, was looking weather-beaten but has now been restored by professional conservators after collections totalling £9,600 were gathered in the museum’s donation box.

Robin Diaper, curator of maritime and social history at Hull Council, said: “We are very grateful to the public who donated towards this important conservation work. As a result, this iconic statue will be enjoyed by many people for years to come.”

The monument has undergone specialist cleaning and has been given a coating that will help protect for several years.

Coun Terry Geraghty, portfolio holder for leisure and culture, said: “William Wilberforce is one of Hull’s most famous sons. He was a former Member of Parliament for the area and is known throughout the world for his vital role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade in 1807.

“The fact that the work has been entirely paid for by public donations shows how highly regarded he still is in his home city and by visitors to Wilberforce House.”