Lincoln dog that raised thousands for charity to get statue

Snips the dog will soon have his own statue as well as a plaque in Lincoln

A Lincoln dog called Snips that helped raise thousands of pounds for charity is getting his own statue.

Snips' owner, market trader Henry Tyler, used to charge people a penny in the 1950s to stroke the terrier and gave the money to various good causes.

An application has how been submitted to the council for a statue of Snips in the revamped Cornhill Market area.

A council spokesperson said: "The story of Snips is a beloved one, and we're so pleased his memory will live on."

Snips' tale is often told on the Lincoln Free Walking Tour and its founders, Matthew Thomas and Brant Clayton, said they were struck by the "overwhelmingly positive response" it got.

The pair petitioned for a statue to be erected within Lincoln's Cornhill Quarter, where Snips' fundraising took place, to acknowledge the impact he had, said City of Lincoln Council.

There is already a plaque commemorating Snips and Mr Tyler in the city.

Snips' owner Henry Tyler charged people a penny to pat his pet

Mr Clayton said: "We are passionate about bringing the city's history to life and celebrating our heritage with visitors to the city.

"Snips is one of the most popular parts of our walking tours and the project will provide something tangible for people to help remember and celebrate his story."

An application has been submitted which includes a design of a bronze statue of Snips sitting on a plinth.

The statue will also continue the "charitable spirit in Snips' story" by allowing passers-by to donate to local charities by tapping their card, the council said.

The statue should be in place by spring 2024, it added.