A Virginia Woolf bench has fallen short of it's target after just £819 has been raised of its £15,000 goal.

The charity behind the controversial Virginia Woolf statue bench has been fundraising for the remaining money it needs to install the sculpture on Richmond riverside. The overall cost is £50,000, of which it already has over £35,000.

Aurora Metro Arts & Media launched a campaign a few weeks ago after Richmond Council unanimously granted permission for the bench to overlook the riverside.

Richmond councillors said the riverside location is "poignant" and could encourage discussions around mental health, while also being a great tourist attraction.

Aurora Metro said: "It is more important than ever that we raise the final £15k. A recent audit of London's statues revealed that only four per cent represent named women.

"We are looking forward to commemorating a pioneering writer, passionate feminist and social advocate in our town.

"We are confident that the sculpture's design does justice to her character – relaxed on a bench with a book on her lap, the statue, designed by Laury Dizengremel, pays tribute to her literary genius and warm personality.

"It will be the first full-size tribute to the author, and offers Richmond an opportunity to celebrate its rich literary heritage. We can't wait to see her in pride of place where millions of people can sit next to her and learn about her legacy."

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Virginia Woolf lived with her husband at Hogarth House, on Paradise Road in Richmond from 1915 to 1924.

During their time in Richmond, they founded the world-famous publishing house, Hogarth Press.

Aurora Metro has been contacted for comment regarding the current funding struggle.

Those wishing to donate to the cause can do so here.