An eight week nomination period has opened for a blue plaque scheme aiming to highlight "inspirational people".

Historic England opened the nomination period today, May 24, to continue their national blue plaque initiative to salute and commemorate inspirational individuals from diverse backgrounds across the South West.

Historic England's national blue plaque programme, which began in September 2023, aims to complement existing plaque schemes run by civic societies, local government bodies, history groups and voluntary associations.

It has already honoured nursing pioneer Daphne Steele, based in Ilkley, and pottery designer Clarice Cliff of Stoke-on-Trent.

To start the round of nominations, a blue plaque has been unveiled in honour of The Beatles legend George Harrison at the musician's birthplace, 12 Arnold Grove, Wavertree, Liverpool.

From May 24 to July 19, residents across the South West can nominate individuals of their choice for a blue plaque via the Historic England website.

To be eligible for a nomination, individuals must have died at least 20 years ago and must have made significant contributions to societal welfare or happiness, or their field.

Additionally, there must be a building that the person is associated with and is still standing where the plaque can be placed and viewed from a public place.

Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England said: "Places across England have borne witness to extraordinary people.

"Blue plaques capture the lasting connection between people and places and have real power to inspire local pride now and for generations to come.

"From today, for eight weeks, we are inviting people across the South West to submit their own nominations for the people they would most like to see recognised in this way."

Arts, Heritage and Libraries minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay added: "Through the national expansion of the blue plaques scheme we have already celebrated a trailblazing matron in Ilkley, an influential artist in Stoke-on-Trent, and now one of our finest musical icons in Liverpool.

"People from all over the country have gone on to change the world – and I'm delighted that they can now be commemorated, and continue to inspire people, in the places they're from.

"Nominations are now open so everyone across the country can put forward the inspirational people they think should be remembered and celebrated in this way – I look forward to seeing who they suggest in the years to come."