A Tribute to Resilience: The Push for a Dame Vera Lynn Statue Near Dover

In a heartfelt initiative, Prime Minister backs a campaign to erect a Dame Vera Lynn statue close to the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. This campaign has already garnered more than £1 million in funds, showcasing the nation’s deep respect for the legendary singer known as the forces’ sweetheart, particularly for her uplifting music during World War Two. Her emotive songs, such as We’ll Meet Again and The White Cliffs of Dover, were instrumental in raising morale when the country faced the darkest days of war.

During Prime Minister’s Questions, Mark Francois, the Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, reached out to Sir Keir Starmer, pointing out that Dame Vera’s legacy is “sewn into our nation’s soul,” a sentiment echoed by Starmer himself. With Victory in Europe (VE) Day approaching on May 8, the discussion of Dame Vera’s statue has gained momentum.

Francois praised the “doughty band of campaigners” who have been tirelessly fundraising since 2021 to bring this vision to fruition. The statue site in Dover has been secured, and the design is complete. They require an additional £350,000, aiming for an unveiling in June—marking five years since Dame Vera’s passing at age 103 in 2020.

The campaign not only honors Dame Vera but also celebrates the generational resilience of those who lived through the war. As the Prime Minister mentioned, supporting this campaign is particularly pertinent given the upcoming VE Day, solidifying the statue as a timeless tribute to the spirit of hope exemplified by Lynn and her music.