RESIDENTS of Ascott-under-Wychwood are raising funds for a new memorial to the Ascott Martyrs, a group of women jailed in 1873 for supporting their husbands in a strike over farm wages.

A steering committee has been set up to coordinate the project and gather ideas for what form a memorial should take. It would complement the existing memorial benches under the tree on the village green.

The committee plans to hold an open evening early next year to outline progress and hear villagers’ views.

For more information, call the group’s chairman, Paul Jackson, on 01993 831967 or email paul.jackson@triangle.eu.com