Gracie Fields memorial stone moved from Molesworth Street

The Gracie Fields memorial stone has been moved due to road works

The Gracie Fields memorial stone, which was located on Molesworth Street, has been moved to accommodate road works.

The stone, which marks Gracie’s birthplace, is due to be cleaned and restored before being put back next year.

Mark Widdup, Director of Economy and Environment at Rochdale Council, said: “The Gracie Fields memorial stone is currently being stored at a local stonemason, after being removed to accommodate road works at the top of Molesworth Street. While there, the memorial will be cleaned and have some light restoration before being returned in late spring.”

It is understood that the refurbishment of the stone is part of the plans to create a lasting Gracie Fields memorial throughout the town.

Gracie Fields was born above a fish and chip shop in 1898 and made her first stage appearance in 1905. She had a lifetime in show business, including a number of appearances in the West End and 10 appearances on the Royal Variety Show.

Though she went to live in Italy, Gracie never forgot her roots and would often visit Rochdale. She was made a dame in 1979 – a few months before she died at the age of 81.