Willie Collins, known as the “King of Sheffield”, was a very popular and talented boxer with naked joints who died tragically while on vacation in Mallorca. He was only 49 years old.
Located in Shiregreen Cemetery, the monument, designed to pay homage to the father of nine, has attracted more than enough criticism. It has not only 37 tons of imported Italian marble, but also a jukebox, many statues and even LED lights.
Read more: Huge tomb with jukebox and LED lights marked as “monster” Willie was a leading figure in the travel community. The widow of Kathleen Collins, 49, claims that there is racism behind the demonstrations against the huge monument, reports Yorkshire Live. Speaking to MailOnline, Kathleen said: “The council has expressed concern that members of the public have been chasing them to protest. There is a lot of racism and jealousy because Willy was a famous traveler who was known all over Sheffield. Willy was known as the “King of Sheffield” (Image: SWNS) “There have been violent comments on social media from those who hate the traveler community and have left the whole family feeling very hurt and angry. “People are threatening to demolish the monument or destroy it, while the council says we may need to change, but if that happens, there will be war.” “It will cause very, very bad turmoil if they tear down my husband’s tombstone. I warn the public and the Council not to touch the beautiful monument we have erected to remember my beloved Willy,” he added. “Everyone knew and loved Willy, but like any couple, we had our problems all these years. Even though we were together, most of those years we were separated, but we always remained good friends.” The monument to the great Willy Collins “The King of Sheffield” (Image: Kathleen Collins) “We keep things private because we come from the traveling community. When weddings and funerals took place, we always went as spouses.” Sheffield City Council told MailOnline that the monument was different from what was submitted and approved in the design application. A council spokesman said: “Sheffield City Council has approved plans for a monument. However, the plans submitted and approved differ from the existing monument. This was fully assessed only after the structure was fully unveiled. “We have contacted the family and intend to discuss the changes that need to be made in order to meet the cemetery rules and to take into account other cemetery users. It would not be appropriate to discuss the details further as this is a sensitive issue and we want to talk to the whole family in the next few days. “ Read more related articles Read more related articles
