Residents of Evesham have been urged to flock together to remember the town's most famous son.

A three metre high statue of herdsman Eof, whose visionary experience of the Virgin Mary led to the building of Evesham Abbey, is planned for Market Place.

The idea for the statue arose just before the Millennium when local publication Vale Magazine asked readers how they would like to commemorate the event. Dozens of people put forward their thoughts, with the statue winning.

Now the magazine is asking for help again - this time to raise £50,000 for the proposed statue.

"This is the first major piece of art for Evesham and will be a focus of the town for years to come," said Ian Tustin, partner for publishers Perfect Image.

"The public decided they would like to have a statue of Eof and now we are asking them to help make that idea a reality.

"We are organising a variety of events, such as sponsored walks, but we need people to come up with their own fund- raising initiatives too. We would like to hear from businesses as well as individuals."

Sculptors from across the country were asked to produce a suitable design, with Worcester artist John McKenna emerging as the winner.

His proposed bronze statue, depicts the moment in which Eof sees Mary and calls the Bishop of Worcester, who also sees the Blessed Virgin.

Mr McKenna, originally from Lower Broadheath but now living in Scotland, is no stranger to large works of art.

He is currently working on a bronze plate to go on the Queen Mary II - the world's largest cruise liner.

But there was something about the story of Eof that particularly intrigued him.

"I think the tale of Eof is absolutely wonderful - and being from Worcestershire, I was particularly keen to learn more about him.

"I thoroughly enjoyed working on a project like this which has a tale behind it.

"I was delighted when I was told I was the winner - especially as it was the public who chose my design."

Wychavon District Council decides next Thursday whether to accept the plan, although officers have recommended approval.

Anyone interested in donating funds for the Eof statue should call Perfect Image on 01386 40435.