Ex-mayor arrested in fraud inquiry over lottery grant for war memorial

Roy Bickerton, 75, was arrested on Sunday and questioned by police but was bailed following further inquiries.

It is understood they are investigating allegations relating to a £10,000 lottery grant.

The former Featherstone Town Council mayor was the treasurer of the Featherstone and District Garden Memorial Fund when they were awarded a grant from the Big Lottery Fund in May 2008 for a memorial in the town.

The impressive brick memorial was built on Station Lane, and features double fronted gates and a large curved wall bearing the names of over 450 people who gave their lives for their country in the World Wars.

A Big Lottery Fund spokesperson confirmed: “A grant of £10,000 was made to Featherstone and District Memorial Garden Fund in May 2008.

“The grant is currently under investigation and we are unable to comment further at this time.”

The war memorial opened in October 2008 after a long campaign by the local community. Ex-servicemen and the Red Cross attended the event opening, in which thousands of people paid their respects.

Jon Trickett MP for Featherstone said: “I have been aware of some time of rumours circulating within the Featherstone area about the misuse of public funds.

“I am satisfied the authorities are involved in scrutinising the allegations for the benefit of everyone. As soon as the matter has been investigated properly and cleared up the better.”