Calls to honour memory of Peterborough’s Nobby

Nobby - whose real name was Michael Ross - died earlier this week after a battle with illness.

Michael was known for living in a bus shelter on Oundle Road, and many have been calling for a lasting memorial in his honour, including suggestions of a plaque at ‘Nobby’s bus stop’ in the Ortons.

MORE: Residents remember Nobby

Orton Waterville councillor Julie Howell said a tree should be planted in his memory - and also encouraged people to donate to charity. She said: “Plant a mighty oak for a mighty man.”

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When asked about residents making a donation to charity, she said: “I would back that. Rough sleeping in the city centre is particularly visible at the moment and while we pause to reflect on Michael’s life it’s also important we look to a future where everyone is housed in safety and comfort.”

Matthew Bradbury, CEO Nene Park Trust said they would look for a spot for a memorial tree. He tweeted: “We would be delighted to look to see if we can find an appropriate location @NeneParkPboro for a remembrance Oak (or two). We would love to commemorate Nobby.”

Toby Wood, from the Peterborough Civic Society, also said charity donations would be the best way to honour Michael’s life.

He said: “Peterborough is very fond its idiosyncratic characters like Nobby and Walter Cornelius. Perhaps the best thing that the city can do to perpetuate his memory is to continue to work with organisations, both voluntary and statutory, to try to make sure that its citizens have decent, safe and healthy places to live.”

After leaving his life on the streets, Michael moved into a Cross Keys Homes’ flat in a sheltered accommodation scheme Dogsthorpe, where he lived until his death on Tuesday.

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His neighbours have called for a memorial at the complex, and Mary Bryce, Cross Keys Homes’ Director of Supported Housing and Care, said it would be possible for a permanent tribute to him. She said: “Our retirement living communities are often very close-knit and neighbours form friendships over the years. Residents frequently want to come together to support one another after the passing of a friend and we’re always happy to support with local arrangements within our communities.”

Last night Michael was remembered in prayers said at Peterborough Cathedral. A spokesman said: “We regularly pray for the work of Garden House and for the hungry and homeless of our city, and we also regularly remember those who have died in our prayers.”