Lady Wrigley, the statue which watches over the Old Library in Oldham town centre, has had a much-needed makeover.

As part of Oldham's major regeneration project, the Old Library is in the midst of being revamped while its history is preserved.

But on the roof of the historic building sits Lady Wrigley who has been thoroughly and carefully restored.

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The statue has her name engraved in bold letters on her back and she carries a book in one hand and a laurel wreath in the other, symbolising victory and triumph.

She received her name as a snub to Colonel William Wrigley who had been campaigning to stop the town from building a library and art gallery in the 1880s.

Before and after photographs of Lady Wrigley show how the statue had fallen into a state of neglect as her stone has turned green.

Now, she stands much cleaner and her features have been made more distinct.

Commenting on the project so far, leader of the council, Councillor Arooj Shah, said: "The building's character is really starting to shine through once again.

"I especially love the statue of Lady Wrigley, which along with the rest of the stonework has had a much-needed clean-up.

"You'll spot her on the roof of the Old Library, so next time you're passing look up.

"Over 140 years on and despite the rough times we're all facing at the minute with the cost-of-living, we've still got that feisty Oldham spirit in us."

Councillor Shah also said she met with cabinet to discuss progress on the regeneration project.

She continued: "I'm really proud that finally we can see things starting to change.

"We’re getting it done and making a genuine difference to real people's lives with more jobs, more homes and more training and education opportunities for everyone.

"And improvements aren't just in the town centre but across the borough with the revamp of Royton Library, new workspace at Broadway Green and our urban farm, Northern Roots, all taking shape.

"Regenerating Oldham is of course about improving our town, making it a great place to live, work, and get on in life."

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