Football superstar Beckham supports Walton statue cause (From Clacton and Frinton Gazette)

Football superstar Beckham supports Walton statue cause

7:30am Friday 1st March 2013 in News

FOOTBALL superstar David Beckham is the latest top name to back a statue for a Walton war hero.

Fundraisers have been drumming up cash for a £50,000 statue of Private Herbert Columbine.

The soldier from Walton died heroically in the First World War and was posthumously awarded a Victoria Cross medal for his bravery.

Legendary midfielder Beckham, once of Manchester United, Real Madrid and England has now added his name to the list of celebrities supporting the statue fund.

He sent a signed LA Galaxy shirt across for fundraisers to auction. It raised £100 for the cause.

Statue fund chairman Mike Turner said: “I contacted Mr Beckham’s representatives and they decided it was a worthy cause and wanted to help.

“We’re really pleased it raised a bit more money for the cause, but it will also be helpful in helping us spread the word.

“Beckham is a massive name and a great footballer, and it means a lot to be able to add someone as big as him to our list of supporters.

“People look up to him and it will help to get youngsters interested in what we’re doing as well.”

The statue fund group has raised more than £36,000 towards the £50,000 statue.