Thomas Cook to get statue in town where he lived

The legacy of travel pioneer Thomas Cook is to be recognised in the town where he lived through a new statue, heritage trail installation and a park being renamed after him.

Thomas Cook is credited with laying the foundations for modern package holiday tourism, after using the railway network to organise group travel in the 1840s.

The statue will be installed in Market Harborough's Friendship Park in Northampton Road, which will be renamed Thomas Cook Friendship Park.

Harborough District Council said the statue and renaming would "celebrate one of the town's most notable historical figures".

Cook is credited for creating the foundations of modern package tourism.

In June 1841, while walking the 15-mile route between Market Harborough and Leicester, he thought up an idea to use the emerging railway network for group travel.

The following month, the first organised rail excursion took place from Leicester to Loughborough, at the cost of a shilling per head.

Those travelling were so-called "temperance supporters" - supporting the prohibition of alcohol.

The journeys were repeated over several summers on behalf of Sunday schools, laying the foundations for the travel business.

Over 178 years it grew into an international travel giant before collapsing in 2019.

An interpretation panel, as well as QR codes with digital information installed across the town, will provide further context about Cook's contribution.

The heritage trail will highlight locations associated with Cook's life and work in the town where he lived.

A plaque dedicated to Cook is already installed in Adam and Eve Street in Market Harborough.

The project is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with additional support from business rate economic development funding.

District council leader Simon Whelband said: "Thomas Cook's vision changed the world of travel, and it is fitting that Market Harborough recognises his achievements in the town where his story began.

"This project celebrates an important part of our history while creating a new attraction that will encourage more people to visit, learn about our heritage and support our local businesses."

No date has been set for the statue and other installations to be completed.

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