Funds growing for sculpted bust of Mansfield choir founder Pamela Cook

Members of the public have been donating generously to remember the life and work of the late Pamela Cook.

It is planned that a head and shoulders sculpture of the international stalwart to the choral world will be homed in the Palace Theatre if enough money can be raised.

Paul Bacon, who is helping to organise the scheme, said: “Cheques and donations have started to arrive and the numbers have been increasing.

“We have also heard of one or two organisations and businesses willing to make donations and they are in the pipeline.”

Coun Christine Smith, who is a member of Mansfield District Council and Mayor Tony Egginton have backed the launch of the Pamela Cook Memorial Appeal Fund and hope to see more donations coming in.

The Cantamus all girl Choir was founded in 1968 and has touched the hearts of millions of people all over the world.

Mr Bacon added: “The response so far has been very pleasing and it is a good start to the scheme.”

Pamela died on 11th July from a stroke.

Her husband GeoffreyThompson said he is giving his full backing to the memorial bust.

He said: “I think the idea is excellent.

“Joy Bentley, a sculptor from North Yorkshire, will be working on the bust and I am thrilled with the idea.”

The Cantamus Choir is also hoping to pay tribute to its founder by commissioning a piece of music or work from a composer who was a friend of Pamela’s.

If enough money is raised it is also hoped that a bursary for young singers will be provided.

Donations to the Appeal fund can be made to Mansfield Building Society using the following details: account number 10613185, sort code 205562 and reference number 13053027.

Payments can be made at local branches in Mansfield, Regent House, Regent Street, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG18 1SS or tel 01623 676350 . Sutton, 53 Portland Square, Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 1AZ or tel 01623 554265 . Kirkby, 48 Station Street, Kirkby in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 7AS or tel 01623 756601.

Members of the public are asked to donate generously to help make the memorial bust a reality.