The Madge Turner Statue Appeal

Help us put a Chichester suffragist back where she belongs — at the heart of her city.

Ethel Margaret "Madge" Turner (1884–1948) was born in Chichester and spent her life campaigning for the rights of women and children. She played a vital role in the suffrage movement, fighting not only for women's right to vote but for representation across every background and circumstance. Yet her story remains largely unknown in the city she called home.

The Madge Turner Statue Appeal aims to change that.

A bronze statue for Chichester

We are raising funds to commission a bronze statue of Madge Turner, sculpted by acclaimed local artist Kate Viner, to take pride of place in Chichester city centre. The statue will depict Madge holding the collaborative flag created by women from across our community — a powerful symbol linking her fight for women's rights with the lived experiences of women in Chichester today.

"My hope," says Kate Viner, "is that the finished bronze statue, holding the flag, will become a lasting symbol of courage, solidarity and change at the heart of our city."

Why it matters

Public statues shape how a city remembers itself. Walk through Chichester today, and the figures cast in bronze tell only part of our story. A permanent memorial to Madge Turner would ensure that her role as a suffragist and advocate for equality is celebrated with the permanence and visibility it deserves — and, just as importantly, would give the women of Chichester a figure to recognise themselves in.

Francesca Tambling, Founder of Chichester Women's History Group and the Madge Turner Statue Appeal, explains: "Since founding the group, momentum has grown beyond what I could have imagined. It's an incredibly exciting time as we bring unheard women's stories into the spotlight where they belong."

Your support makes it possible

A project of this scale depends on the generosity of individuals, businesses and community organisations who believe Madge's story deserves to be told. Every donation — whatever the size — brings the statue closer to becoming a reality.

Other ways to get involved

• Spread the word — share Madge's story with friends, family and local groups

• Follow our progress on social media and through our newsletter

• Get in touch if you'd like to discuss a larger gift, business sponsorship or fundraising partnership: [contact email placeholder]

Together, we can ensure that a Chichester woman who spent her life fighting for others is finally honoured in the city she loved.