Hollywood 'walk of fame' suggested for Henley

A “walk of fame” similar to that in Hollywood has been suggested for Henley as a way to boost footfall and tourism.

PR consultant Michael Hodges, 64, who lives in Greys Hill, Berkshire, said more should be done to celebrate notable residents the Oxfordshire town is known for past and present.

Henley-on-Thames was once home to Dusty Springfield, George Orwell and George Harrison, while it is now home to Liam Gallagher, Mary Berry and James Cracknell.

Mr Hodges said: "It's not to do with glitter and glamour, it's about celebrating local people in a fun, memorable and meaningful way."

He said he got the idea after staying at a hotel in Hart Street which reminded him of Henley's "historical influence".

He said: “The names of the hotel’s rooms were connected to figures from history including Charles I, who visited in 1632 and 1642.

"It occurred to me when people visit now, how many know and appreciate just how much history there is here.”

He said he would like to see the likes of rower Cracknell celebrated for his "enormous legacy" as well as Thunderbirds creator Gerry Anderson.

Mr Hodges has contacted Henley Mayor Rory Hunt with the idea of embedding five-pointed star-shaped brass plaques into the pavement in Market Place.

He explained it would be "relatively easy" to take up some of the existing paving stones and "cut them so that they could set within a plaque of some sort".

He said: "It could be made of brass, it has to be durable so that it can stay as a tourist attraction.

“You could then have a leaflet available to anybody going to Henley which explains a little bit more about each individual and what it’s all about."

Henley Mayor Rory Hunt said the town council "welcomes ideas from residents and encourages them to bring forward suggestions through the proper channels".

But he added: "While we appreciate the enthusiasm surrounding the recent 'Walk of Fame' proposal, we would like to remind residents that any ideas must be formally submitted.

"It is worth noting that a similar proposal was reviewed by the council a few years ago but was ultimately rejected- due to concerns over cost, administrative burden, and planning implications."

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