Equestrian statue of Viscount Combermere

Stapleton Cotton, 1st Viscount Combermere (1773–1865) was a cavalry officer, diplomat and politician, who served with distinction under Wellington in the Peninsular War. In 1863 it was suggested that a monument to him should be erected. The proposal quickly gained support from the major landowners of Cheshire and John Graham, Bishop of Chester, who were all major subscribers to the project. It was agreed, because of Combermere's distinguished cavalry career, that the monument should be an equestrian statue. Carlo Marochetti, noted for his equestrian statues, was commissioned to create the work. It was also agreed that the statue should stand on a prestigious site opposite Chester Castle.…