AMBTIOUS plans to commemorate another of Pembroke’s historic figures, a man central to the creation of the Magna Carta, are to be unveiled next month.

On Saturday, February 2, Pembroke & Monkton Local History Society will be organising a public meeting to launch Pembroke’s second statue project, following the success of the Henry VII statue.

The proposed statue will celebrate William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, in this, the 800th anniversary of his death in 1219.

Pembroke & Monkton Local History Society Chair Linda Asman said: “William Marshal was a great figure in our history: in a remarkable career, he rose from penniless younger son of a minor noble to Regent of England, after winning fame as tournament champion, warrior and statesman who was unswervingly loyal to four kings. William was central to the negotiations that led to Magna Carta.

“On King John's death in 1216 he became Regent and guardian of the boy king Henry III and re-issued Magna Carta under his own seal, thus ensuring its survival. He truly was the Greatest Knight.”

Linda added: “Harriet Addyman, sculptor of the Henry VII statue, has been commissioned and she will present the maquette (scale model) of the William Marshal statue at the meeting.

“It will be an ambitious and impressive sculpture: a life-size figure seated on a horse.

“Again, the society will be working with Pembroke Town Council’s regeneration committee and it is intended that this will again be a community-wide project. So come along to find out more.”

The meeting begins at 10.30am but the town hall will be open from 10am for a coffee and cake.

Entry is free, although donations will go to the statue project.

If you wish to find out more, see pembrokeandmonktonhistory.org.uk or email pembrokehistory@live.co.uk, or phone Linda on 07584429224