GRAHAM Ibbeson is modelling a £60,000 bronze sculpture of Lancashire comedian Les Dawson.

It is expected to be completed this year and will go on display at Lytham St Annes where he lived with his wife Tracey.

Graham said:" Tracey has been over to see the clay model and she burst into tears:'That's Les,' she said. I was greatly relieved.

"I had to put all his character into a simple pose. With the Eric Morecambe statue, I had him dancing around and the Dickie Bird statue had a raised finger.

"With Les I have got his hands clasped and it's more difficult to get the character.

"He did like jewellery. I have had to model a bracelet and Rolex watch - it's the nearest thing I'll get to a Rolex, in clay.

"I always liked his humour and I wanted to model him even before the Morecambe statue."

The money for the project has been raised over nine months and has included a concert with big stars at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, a golf match and donations.