Don't miss a thing by getting the latest from the Manchester Evening News sent direct to your inbox Horrified by the era's fashions of feathers, Emily Williamson launched a campaign to stop the Victorian trade in plumes for women's hats.
Her tireless campaigning led to the creation in 1889 of what is now known and loved across the world as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds - RSPB.
Fletcher Moss Park in Didsbury was her home - and her passion. Now a bronze statue to honour her life and work will stand proud there in the gardens as a tribute to her legacy.
Four designs by sculptors have been shortlisted and macquettes will be unveiled in July to mark the centenary of the Importation of Plumage (Protection) Act.
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