MP Natalie Elphicke visited a number of potential sites for a permanent memorial to Dame Vera Lynn.

The Dover MP looked at various places on the Western Heights with members of Dame Vera's family, including daughter Virgina Lewis-Jones, and district council representatives.

Fundraising is set to begin in June for the statue, designed to commemorate the Forces' Sweetheart's contribution to cultural life in the United Kingdom.

Mts Elphicke said: “I was pleased to view some potential sites for the statue, marking the next step for this exciting project to honour Dame Vera, whose legacy has such importance for Dover and for the nation.

“Dame Vera’s music encapsulates the rich culture and entertainment attractions in our area, which is home to leading galleries, artists, potters and live music venues, as well as an array of performing arts venues.

“This lasting legacy to Dame Vera, as well as Dover District Council’s exciting plans for an indoor creative arts centre in Bench Street and an outdoor performing arts bowl, will allow us to make our cultural heritage the foundation stone from which we build our culture and entertainment future."

The singer, who died last June 18, aged 103, is forever associated with this area because of her 1941 hit (There'll be Bluebirds Over) the White Cliffs of Dover.

The campaign for a permanent memorial to her has recently been backed by major names such as former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney and composer Sir Tim Rice.

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