PLANS to erect a statue in Malvern town centre commemorating the founders of the Morgan Motor Company came a step nearer to reality this week.

Roger Moran, founder of the Morgan Statue Foundation, said he was delighted that Malvern Hills District Council granted planning permission for the project on Wednesday.

The proposal is for a bronze replica of a Morgan 4/4 with figures of company founder H F S Morgan standing beside and his son Peter Morgan at the wheel. It will be sited on the pavement outside the Abbey Gateway, which houses the town's museum.

At this week's meeting, Coun Mike Selby, chairman of Malvern Town Council, said he was fully supported the proposal as a celebration of the Morgan Motor Company's uniqueness, and that the sculpture would complement the Elgar statue on nearby Belle Vue island.

Ward member coun Ralph Madden proposed approval, saying: "Malvern is known for four things, the hills, Elgar, the water and Morgan cars." He was seconded by Upton ward member Mike Morgan, who reassured fellow members he was no relation.

Coun Brian Pilcher asked if CCTV coverage could be provided, to deter any vandalism, like that of the Elgar statue a few years ago, but was told that was not in the remit of the committee.

After the meeting Mr Moran said: "I'm delighted. What happens next is down to money in the bank." The aim is to unveil the statue in 2009, the company's centenary.

More about the project can be found at www.morgan-statue.org. Contributions can be made to Lloyds TSB account number 0701541, sort code 30-13-64.