American lawyers are being targeted in a bid to fund a statue of one of Wallingford's most famous sons -- Judge Blackstone.

Sir William Blackstone was the first Professor of Law at Oxford University. His most famous work is his Commentaries on the Laws of England.

The book was influential in the formulating of the American Constitution and he is still respected in America, even though he is little known in the UK.

The idea for the statue -- a twice life-size bust on a granite plinth -- comes from a town council working party.

It is co-ordinating celebrations, planned for 2005, to mark the 850th anniversary of Wallingford gaining its charter from King Henry II in 1155.

But the working group wants something permanent as a reminder of the event. Town council member Lynda Atkins said the memorial to Judge Blackstone would be very appropriate.

About £10,000 in sponsorship for the statue is being sought from businesses, lawyers or individuals.

Council member John Cohen is co-ordinating efforts to find the money. One source will be societies of lawyers in America.

Ms Atkins said: "Judge Blackstone is very much revered over there.

"We think American lawyers would be willing to help fund the memorial."

Judge Blackstone lived at Castle Priory in Wallingford.

A plaque, paying tribute to him, can be found at the town's St Peter's Church, where he is buried.

Judge Blackstone died in 1780.