HISTORIC CITY LANDMARK SET FOR FACELIFT THANKS TO LOCAL WARD COMMITTEE (York Liberal Democrats)

York Liberal Democrats <info@yorklibdems.org.uk>

HISTORIC CITY LANDMARK SET FOR FACELIFT THANKS TO LOCAL WARD COMMITTEE

September 3, 2010 1:04 PM

The Tyburn, the site which hosted executions in York for more than 400 years is to get a facelift after local Councillors agreed to fund improvements from the local Ward Committee budgets.

The Dringhouses and Woodthorpe Ward Committee has allocated £1500 of funding to pay for the area to be cleaned up and the bench repaired. The area will also be replanted in the Spring with new flowers to brighten up the area.

If funding allows it is hoped that an extra new bench could be installed at the site along with a new information board to explain the history of the site to visitors.

Executions at the Tyburn took place until 1801 when the events were moved to the castle. Possibly the most famous execution at the Tyburn took place in 1739 when notorious highwayman Dick Turpin was executed for horse theft.

The site is currently marked by a small paved area and a plaque.

Liberal Democrat Councillor for Dringhouses & Woodthorpe Ward, Tom Holvey said, "The Tyburn is an important part of local history so I am pleased that the Ward Committee is able to fund these improvements."

"The site has a fascinating, if gruesome, history so I am pleased that the improvements look set to include a new information board to explain that history to residents and visitors."

"Dringhouses has a rich history and is a key gateway to the city so it is important that we invest in restoring the site and promote pride in the area."