Sheffield 'Women of Steel' statue unveiled

A new statue's been unveiled in Sheffield to honour the city's female steel workers during WWII.

Published 17th Jun 2016

Women who worked in Sheffield's steelworks during World War 2 have come together to unveil a new tribute to them in the city.

The so-called 'Women of Steel' campaign raised almost ÂŁ170,000 for the monument, which is now outside the City Hall.

It was unveiled at a ceremony earlier today, which was attended by over 100 surviving Women of Steel as well as 400 family members of those who've since passed away.

Each of the Women of Steel were also presented with a medallion as the target of ÂŁ150,000 was beaten and there was money left over.

The artist who created the statue was Martin Jennings - he told us he's pleased with the final product:

"It's represents two of the women who worked in the steel industry during the second world war but it also represents all of them. They're arm in arm - representing the collaborative nature of their work. They managed to get through terrifically difficult long hours."

"It's very rare to be asked to make a statue of women - only 15% of statues in this country are of women so that's a balance that need redressing. But it was just responding to the warmth of the Women of Steel - it was extremely encouraging."