Sidmouth toilet and shower request for tragic William

A FRIEND of a man who died in a blazing car in August 2004, has asked Sidmouth Town Council to consider dedicating new toilet and shower facilities being constructed at the Esplanade seafront shelters, in his memory.

A FRIEND of a man who died in a blazing car in August 2004, has asked Sidmouth Town Council to consider dedicating new toilet and shower facilities being constructed at the Esplanade seafront shelters, in his memory.

William Dunbar of Cotmaton Road, wrote of his friend, Leslie Bird: "A few years ago he lobbied hard for these to be installed.

"Leslie was a 93-year-old local resident who committed suicide by driving towards Salcombe Regis and parking his beloved Metro, [he called Emma], and then setting fire to the vehicle.

"At the time his scheme for putting in the toilets was rejected. I am sure he would now be very pleased that they will appear and it would be a fitting memorial to his memory."

On Monday Mr Dunbar received a reply from the council's clerk to say it would be put to councillors at their monthly meeting on Monday, August 10.

She also pointed out that as the money for the project had come from the Woolley bequest to the council, it was likely a plaque to the benefactor would be put at the former Esplanade shelters.

Mr Dunbar said he had known Mr Bird for a decade after meeting him at Sidmouth Bowling Club.