In April last year Transportation Professional reported the efforts of the Knaresborough Civic Society to raise funding to commemorate the life John Metcalf, "Blind Jack" of Knaresborough. Despite his disability, Blind Jack arranged the construction of nearly 300kms of highway across the North of England in the 18th century.

The efforts were successful and a life-size statue of Blind Jack, seated on a bench, was unveiled by the Mayor of Knaresborough, Pamela Godsell, on Sunday, 22 February.

The proceedings were enlivened by the Knaresborough Silver Band and were very well attended by a large crowd including the sculptor, Barbara Asquith, the local MP, Phil Willis, civic dignitaries, fundraisers, donors and a wide cross-section of local people and the media.

The Yorkshire and Humberside Branch of IHT made a donation to the fund both to honour a worthy predecessor and in the hope that their contribution to the profession might generate similar commitment and enthusiasm in 200 years time!