THE date of the Victoria Wood statue unveiling has been announced.

The two-metre high sculpture will take pride of place in Library Gardens, off Silver Street, in Bury town centre from next month.

Commissioned by Victoria’s brother, Chris Foote-Wood, as well as members of her literary estate and Bury Council, the statue depicts the comedian in a typical onstage pose, holding a microphone.

Speaking at last week’s meeting of Bury Council, Cllr Judith Kelly, cabinet member for corporate affairs and human resources, confirmed the unveiling date as Friday, May 17 ­— two days before what would have been Victoria’s 66th birthday.

In January, the council granted planning permission for the statue of the comedy legend.

It will stand opposite Bury Library where Victoria used to steal books from since she was too chronically shy to ask a librarian how to join.

An unused 1970s fountain will be removed to make way for the statue and plinth, which have been made by sculptor Graham Ibbeson, the man responsible for creating the famous Eric Morecambe monument.

A multi BAFTA award-winning comedian, writer and actor, Victoria Wood was born in Prestwich and attended Bury Grammar School for Girls.

She died in April 2016, aged 62, following a battle with cancer.

A full weekend of events is being arranged to coincide with the unveiling, including a one-off performance at The Met featuring Victoria’s dinnerladies co-stars.