Sir Norman Wisdom fell for artist's tiny figurine

The death of comedy legend Sir Norman Wisdom touched many people. But it was felt even more keenly by a Black Country artist who once visited his home.

The comedian and actor wrote a letter inviting Glenda Dolman from Wednesbury to his home in the Isle of Man in 1998 to thank her for making a figurine of him.

"I was saddened to hear of his death," said the mother-of-three, aged 43.

"It has really affected me. He was someone who took time out to make me feel like I could achieve something.

"He went beyond a quick note of 'cheers'.

"I will always be grateful for his belief in my talent. He was a gentleman and I was grateful for his attention."

Miss Dolman, from Crankhall Lane, was inspired to make two figurines of Mr Wisdom, who died last week at the age of 95, after reading his autobiography.

Mr Wisdom was so impressed with the work that he sent Miss Dolman a letter of thanks and invited her to visit his home.

She flew to the Isle of Man, got the bus to near where he lived and he picked her up from the bus stop in a green BMW car.

"The house was pretty normal really," she said. "There was a large settee and dining table and lots of photographs of his family. We watched one of his old films, and the neighbours came round too.

"He was more shy than I thought he would be.

"He had a housekeeper and she did everything for him — cooking, cleaning the lot.

"We spoke about his past, how he once met Marilyn Monroe and how she lifted him up. He spoke about being a lad when he was younger and chatting up girls.

"He was very flirty with me but I think he was like that with everyone. I thought it was funny and laughed it off."

Twelve years after meeting Mr Wisdom, Miss Dolman still makes art as a hobby rather than as a business.

The artist be exhibiting her work at Sandwell Art Shop in Queens Square, West Bromwich, on November 1-14.