AN anti-racism group has added four locations in Middlesbrough which they want renamed or removed to a list of 'UK statues and monuments that celebrate slavery and racism'.

However, two Teesside MPs have branded it a 'stupid idea' to topple any statues.

On the 'topple the racists' website Captain Cook's Crescent, the Captain Cook statue in Great Ayton, James Cook University Hospital and The Resolution, a pub named after one of Captain Cook's ships, have been added to a map of monuments and statues they want removed.

Simon Clarke MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said: "To those seeking to denigrate statues of Captain Cook, as the MP for his birthplace let me say this: Middlesbrough is immensely proud of our most famous son.

"He was a labourer’s son whose extraordinary courage and abilities meant he was entrusted with a series of major voyages of science and exploration.

"He was by all accounts a good and decent man, and he rose to worldwide renown.

"His statues will stay in place and we will continue to celebrate his achievements.

"I will be taking a petition to Parliament on this subject and will get a link up in the next few hours so you can make your voice heard.

"I can promise I will fight this stupid idea to try to erase his memory, and keep fighting with all the energy I possess, and I know our community will be on my side."

Jacob Young MP for Redcar said that rather than tearing down the statues of historical figures, let's instead raise one in honour of Sir Tom Moore in his home county of Yorkshire.

Writing to Oliver Dowden, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Mr Young said: "Dear Secretary of State, I am writing to ask for a statue of Captain Sir Tom Moore to be erected in Yorkshire, his region of birth, as a monument to remember the amazing works he performed for charity and for the country.

"Just weeks before his 100th birthday, Captain Tom picked up his walker and offered to play his part in the national effort to tackle coronavirus, raising more than £30 million for charities supporting the NHS. This incredible act of selflessness should serve as an example for us all and truly represents the best of British.

"In that spirit, I can think of no better way to pay tribute to him and ensure future generations are inspired by his achievements than placing a commemorative statue at the heart of his home, in Yorkshire, where he was so proud to be from.

"There has been a lot of debate about statues over the past year, but few people have embodied the feeling of national togetherness in a way that Captain Tom has. For that reason, he deserves our full gratitude as a country, and I urge you to consider raising a statue in his honour.

"I look forward to hearing from you."