Sharon Osbourne backs naming airport after Ozzy

Ozzy Osbourne, who is pictured with long dark grey hair and wearing orange-tinted glasses and chunky gold jewellery, including a cross around his neck, sits on a blue and white patterned sofa with gold and blue cushions next to Sharon Osbourne, who has short bright red hair and is smiling. They are holding two small dogs.Image source, PA Media
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Sharon Osbourne said the idea to name Birmingham Airport after Ozzy was "fabulous"

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Sharon Osbourne has said it "would be amazing" if Birmingham Airport was renamed in honour of her late husband, rock legend Ozzy Osbourne.

The TV personality has given her support to a campaign to call the airport Ozzy Osbourne International, which was launched by podcaster and comedian Dan Hudson after the Black Sabbath singer died at the age of 76 in July.

More than 70,000 people have signed a petition backing the idea, which Hudson said was inspired by airports being named after famous figures such as John Lennon.

"It would be amazing," Osbourne said of a potential rebrand. "The world loved Ozzy. It's just a dream right now, but sometimes dreams come true."

Hudson said: "It's amazing to see that Sharon is backing the idea.

"The campaign is growing and growing and there's even more momentum now with Sharon on board."

A man with dark blond hair stands in front of a colourful background, pictured from the head and shoulders up.  He wears a white T-shirt and black jumper.Image source, Dan Hudson
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Dan Hudson is determined to persuade Birmingham Airport to change its name

Edward Fitter, one of the campaign's supporters and a member of Birmingham City Council, said: "Ozzy's legacy deserves to be remembered here in the West Midlands.

"We already have Ozzy the bull at Grand Central, which is fantastic, and with his family's support we should continue to celebrate his contribution to music and to Birmingham's global identity."

Brand expert Andy Barr said renaming the airport would "work on every level" and give a "feel-good boost" to the region.

He said that changing an airport's official name and code would come with costs and logistical challenges, but it could be achieved "through a public and private partnership".

Birmingham Airport said it was "currently progressing an exciting homage to Ozzy Osbourne" and was "committed to honouring his legacy" in its terminal.

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