A CAMPAIGN to build a lasting tribute to a comic genius who feared ‘heaven with Jeffrey Archer’ has been launched.

A statue of one of the borough’s most famous residents Spike Milligan could adorn Lewisham High Street if supporters are successful.

Brockley ward councillor and Green Party leader on the London Assembly Darren Johnson is calling for a monument to mark the life and work of the late comedian.

He hopes Lewisham Council will back the idea and sponsor a bid for lottery funding.

Spike Milligan is remembered for his legendary influence over comedy with fellow Goons Peter Sellers, Michael Bentine and Harry Secombe, and his famous one-liners. Questioning his own belief about going to heaven Spike said: “I’d like to go there. But if Jeffrey Archer is there I want to go to Lewisham.” Born in India in 1918, he was brought up in Riseldine Road, Honor Oak, where he worked as a cigarette packer in Deptford, but he eventually got himself on an evening music course and became a leading light in Tommy Brittell’s New Ritz Revellers, in Brockley.

Mr Johnson said: “Spike Milligan will be remembered by millions for his huge contribution to British comedy, but also by many of us for his tireless campaigning on green issues. In Morecambe they have a wonderful statue for Eric Morecambe and we should do the same for Spike. I would love to see a prominent sculpture in the town centre next to the Clock Tower.” Lewisham Deptford MP Joan Ruddock recalled his famous heaven quote and believes he will appreciate being both in heaven and in Lewisham.

At the 21st birthday celebrations of Lewisham Shopping Centre, Spike unveiled the mural Postcards From Lewisham, which he appears on.

Centre manager Richard Merry says he welcomes the idea and any initiative to commemorate Mr Milligan would be great.

Mayor Steve Bullock said: “I would be happy to consider how best we can mark Spike Milligan’s association with Catford. However, it would need to be something that was true to the spirit of the man.”