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• Coventry's Walk of Fame

First ten names for city's Walk of Fame revealed

Release date: Mar 13, 2008

Walk of Fame star.

Local people have chosen the first ten names for Coventry's Walk of Fame ahead of its launch in May.

The Walk of Fame celebrates people who have brought the city recognition at national or international level. Recipients do not necessarily have to be Coventry born, but must have a strong connection with the city.

In an unprecedented public ballot, jet pioneer Sir Frank Whittle secured the most votes, followed by Lady Godiva, the late Mo Mowlam and Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons.

Other names confirmed as recipients of the accolade are cycle pioneer James Starley, athlete Dave Moorcroft, Australian statesman Sir Henry Parkes, football legend Jimmy Hill, pop impresario Pete Waterman and The Specials.

Their names will be inscribed on bronze plaques set into the floor of Priory Place in the city centre. The Walk of Fame will be launched in May.

In total, almost 3000 votes were cast through the local media and on the city council’s website.

Peter Walters, Head of Economic Development for city centre managers CV One, who chairs the organising group said, “I think that’s a terrific response and we’re celebrating some great names here. They are a diverse and impressive group, every one of them a worthy recipient of this honour, and the great thing about it is that each has been chosen by the people of the city.

“I would point out too that this is just the start. We intend to add further names to the Walk of Fame next year, so if your choice did not make it onto the list in 2008, you will get another opportunity to vote.”

Local music historian Pete Chambers, who came up with the original idea, said, “It’s amazing to see my idea actually become a reality and I would like to thank all those involved. What was really encouraging was the hundreds of worthy names nominated for the project by the public, further endorsing the impact this fine city and its citizens have had on the world in so many diverse areas.”

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