A STATUE of a historic Kidderminster church leader has been given a major make over.

Kidderminster Town Council has spent £12,000 sprucing up the Richard Baxter monument and stopping further erosion and ensuring it is protected for years to come.

The statue is based on the Ring Road below St Mary’s Church and is popular amongst visitors to the town who come from as far as the United States to see it and learn more about his works and part of the history of Kidderminster.

Richard Baxter began his ministry at Kidderminster in 1640 and made the town his home for 20 years.

As well as his church work, he was also an author and poet and wrote his great work, ‘The Saint’s Everlasting Rest’ while in Kidderminster.

His Kidderminster days also coincided with the Civil War which resulted in Oliver Cromwell coming to power.

Councillor Rose Bishop, chairman of the Town Council’s services committee, said “I am delighted that the Town Council agreed the budget to carry out the restoration of the statue.

“Richard Baxter is an important local historical figure and the Town Council is keen to ensure we protect and promote the heritage of the town for future generations.”