A statue of a plumber's apprentice is to be erected in Cannon Street station, London, in 2011, pending donations to the Plumber's Apprentice fund.

A statue of a plumber's apprentice is to be erected in Cannon Street station, London, in 2011, pending donations to the Plumber's Apprentice fund.

The statue will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers receiving their Royal Charter from King James I.

It also signifies the industry's long association with London and the company's ongoing commitment to training young plumbers.

Martin Jenning's bronze statue will stand over six feet tall, and will represent the important role played by all the professional trades in the development of the city.

But the statue requires donations to be completed, with the help of the Plumber's Apprentice fund, which has a target of £100,000.

Jennings, whose recent work includes a sculpture of Ronnie Barker, was praised by many who attended the unveiling of his apprentice sculpture "for capturing the slight cockiness and nonchalance of the classic young apprentice".

It was also revered as a "highly appropriate representation of such a proud, practical trade".

HVCA master – formerly president – Chris Sneath, said: "The statue is as much about promoting plumbing as a worthy career for young people as it is about marking our ancient connections with the city of London.

"The current controversy over university fees and the desperate shortage of suitably-skilled tradesmen point towards vocational qualifications playing an increasingly important role."

To make a donation to the Plumber's Apprentice fund, call 020 7796 2468, email clerk@plumberscompany.org.uk, or contact The Clerk, The Worshipful Company of Plumbers, Wax Chandlers' Hall, 6 Gresham Street, London EC27 7AD.