Prince Charles to unveil statue in Winchester tomorrow

The sculpture, outside the Discovery Centre on Jewry Street, will then be blessed by the Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom, Ephraim Mirvis.

The Prince will meet a range of local people and children, as well as representatives from the different faith communities who have supported the Licoricia project and leading figures from Winchester and Hampshire.

The time of the unveiling has yet to be announced.

WHAT IS THE STATUE?

Licoricia was a leading community figure in the 13th century.

Despite being widowed twice, she successfully brought up her family, conducted her business and prospered in a hostile society. She was a major financier to Henry III and his Queen, Eleanor.

Money raised from Licoricia and from the estate of her second husband David contributed to the building of Westminster Abbey and its rich shrine to Edward the Confessor. She was murdered along with her Christian maid in the city.

the five-year project to install a statue of Licoricia aims to inform people about England’s little-known but important medieval Jewish community; to be a fresh gateway to the study of Winchester’s royal medieval past; to promote tolerance and diversity in today’s society; to inspire women and show the importance of education in providing opportunity; and to be a lasting artistic enhancement to the city of Winchester.

ROAD CLOSURE IN PLACE

As a result a road closure of Jewry Street at the top of St George's Street will be implemented before Prince Charles arrives.

The closure will run from 9.30am to 4pm.

On St George's Street, one lane will be closed to traffic turning right at the junction with Jewry Street. However, traffic will be able to turn left at the junction towards the High Street.

Jewry Street will be fully closed, while Tower Street will be closed between the junctions of Jewry Street and Tower Road.

Access to an exit from Tower Street Car Park will still be possible from the entrance and exit on Sussex Street and Tower Street.

St George's Street is the main artery through the city centre and the closure will lead to more traffic backing down towards Upper Brook Street and Friarsgate.

It is to be expected that the city will be busier than usual, with barriers in place to close the streets to traffic and keep pedestrians safe.

Public transport is advised to those coming into the city, with Park and Ride car parks (South, Barfield and St Catherine’s) fully available.

People living locally are advised to walk or cycle around the city wherever possible.