Ripon Civic Society has organised a short tribute to the 1st Marquess of Ripon next Thursday at the foot of his statue, whch stands in the Spa Gardens.

And, to make sure the eminent politician is looking his best, they arranged for the statue to be given a thorough clean with a power-washer.

The 1st Marquess of Ripon had a long and remarkable career, serving in all the Liberal governments from 1861 to 1908, and was also a great supporter and benefactor of Ripon, where he served as Mayor.

'proud'

David Winpenny, chairman of the Civic Society, said: "We are proud to mark the centenary of his death, and we are grateful to Harrogate Borough Council for arranging to have the statue cleaned in time for the event."

The event on Thursday, at 7pm, will hear a short tribute to the great man before Richard Compton of Newby Hall, a desecendent of the Marquess's family, gives a talk in the nearby Spa Hotel.

"We hope that many people will join us to see the statue and to hear Richard Compton talk about this notable figure in local, national and international history," said Mr Winpenny.