A FUND has been launched to create a permanent memorial for one of the region's most popular politicians.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council yesterday launched The Mo Mowlam Memorial Fund to raise £12,000 for a mosaic to celebrate her life and preserve the memory of the late Redcar MP.

After a number of public suggestions, the council's Memorial Committee of former mayors, Councillors Peter Spencer, Vilma Collins, Madge Moses and Norah Cooney, decided on a mosaic to remember the politician and her contribution to the borough.

Freelance artist John Todd has been commissioned to create a pattern of more than 500 ceramic tiles in a three-metre circle, to be installed beside Redcar boating lake, opposite Dr Mowlam's former home in Newcomen Terrace, Redcar.

The circle has as its centrepiece a portrait of Dr Mowlam, surrounded by images, including the beach where she used to walk, racehorses to depict Redcar Racecourse, where she celebrated her wedding, the steelworks, the Zetland lifeboat, the Houses of Parliament, hands clasped for peace and doves to depict the Northern Ireland peace process.

There will be seating around the mosaic for people to sit and remember her.

To contribute to the fund, make cheques payable to the Mo Memorial Fund c/o Jane Holmes, Town Hall, Fabian Road, Eston, TS6 1SF, or donations can be delivered to reception desks at Eston Town Hall, Redcar and Cleveland House, Kirkleatham Street, Redcar, or Belmont House, Guisborough.