HATS OFF TO FUNDRAISER – BUT NO STATUE
SHE’S raised more than £1m for worthy causes – but a bid to erect a statue dedicated to the prolific fundraiser has been defeated. Margaret Thrush has been collecting spare change in the pubs and bars around the village of Mumbles for more than 60 years, topping more than £1,500,000 for a variety of charities.
Over the past 12 years she has raised more than £300,000 for charity Macmillan alone.
A well-known face in the village, always wearing a sombrero, her efforts were recognised when she was appointed an MBE for her services to charity.
And earlier this month, community councillors debated creating their own tribute to the 78-year-old, by calling for a statue to be erected in the village to the charity champion.
The proposal was put forward by Rob Marshall, who chairs Mumbles Community Council’s cultural, tourism and well-being committee.
He said: “If anyone from Newton deserves recognition it is Margaret, and she deserves more than just a plaque.
“She is a local legend, and over 60 years has selflessly raised more than £300,000 for Macmillan alone, not forgetting the millions she has raised for other charities.
“The public love Margaret and are very much behind her being recognised in this way.
“A statue next to the Ostreme [centre] would be bold and quirky, and it would be a tourist attraction.
“The proposal included plans for a donation box, which would continue all her fantastic fundraising; we could establish the Margaret Thrush Trust.
“It was very disappointing to be the only councillor from Newton to vote for the proposal.”
Fellow community councillor Adam Gilbert added: “A lot of people have supported this proposal, as well as businesses.
“I am surprised the vote did not go through. Some on the council felt a blue plaque would be more appropriate, but perhaps it is right to be brave and do something more dynamic.
“The proposal also included having a donation box as part of the statue, which would be an appropriate tribute to Margaret.
“It could become an attraction for the village.”
In addition to raising money for Macmillan, over the years Margaret has raised money for the RNLI, the former Longfields Disability Centre in the West Cross area of Swansea, and Children in Need, with all proceeds being spent locally.
Oscar-winner Catherine Zeta Jones, who knew Margaret from growing up in Mumbles, has sent her a letter of thanks for the huge sum she has raised for charity.
However, the proposal to erect a statue in her honour was defeated following a vote by Mumbles Community Council.
Paul Whittaker, chairman of Mumbles Traders’ Association, said: “Anything such as this that might bring footfall into the village has got to be positive.
“But who the statue should be for and who pays for it is open to debate.”
Margaret said: “It is a lovely idea and it would be lovely for my mother and Aunty Cath, looking down from the sky.”