AN appeal to raise funds for a public statue of a medieval Jewish woman in Winchester is nearing its target.

Fundraisers have gathered more than £110,000 towards its target of around £150,000 in the last two years since its launch in 2018.

The statue will portray Licoricia with her son Asher. She was prominent in business in the 13th century and was murdered in the city in 1277.

The Licoricia project aims to unveil the statue on outside the Discovery Centre on Jewry Street, close to the medieval Jewish quarter, in the second half of 2021.

It is being created in full-size form by renowned sculptor Ian Rank-Broadley and will be cast in bronze in the spring.

The charity is working on the education aspect. A book has been commissioned by author, Rebecca Abrams and education experts at Hampshire County Council have been preparing lessons for school children.

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The publications will not only provide information about Winchester’s important medieval Jewish community but will also be a gateway to learning about a time in Winchester’s history when, with its Royal and ecclesiastical connections, it was one of the most important cities in the country.

Maggie Carver, the chairman, said: “We are very excited by the progress that we have made and the support that we have received for this unique venture, that will beautify the city and be a gateway to a new world of discovery about Winchester’s past.”

The statue will highlight the role played by the Jewish community before their expulsion by Edward I in 1290.

Close to Henry III, Licoricia helped finance Westminster Abbey and carved out a successful career in the 13th century against considerable odds. This was very unusual for women of the time, and she managed it whilst bringing up a family and in the face of increasing persecution.

The charity says her story teaches important lessons about tolerance, the importance of diversity, education, gender equality and prejudice.

Further information about the project can be found at www.licoricia.org, where donations can be made.