Princess Diana memorial in Paris under threat

Aug 8, 2005, 14:59 GMT

A monument created as a memorial to Britain's Princess Diana is under threat from French authorities.

City councillors in Paris reportedly want to remove the gilded monument - which stands above the tunnel where the princess died in a car crash in 1997 - because it causes road accidents.

It is claimed that eight sightseers have been killed while crossing the Place de l'Alma to see the spectacular flame-shaped tribute.

Councillors are reportedly urging Paris Mayor Bernard Delanoe to remove the memorial.

However, the mayor has said it will stay in place if the public want it to remain.

He is quoted in Britain's Sunday Express newspaper as saying: "The flame must stay if the people of Paris so wish. Paris does not want to forget its princess."

But an aide revealed: "That is the message for public consumption. A majority of councillors oppose the flame. It's a dangerous lure. If the issue goes to a vote, Delanoe will not fight to save it."

Dr Frederic Mailliez, who gave Diana first aid after the accident, insists the flame is a fitting tribute that should always mark the spot where she lost her life.

He said: "Everybody I speak to wants the flame to stay. The flame keeps her precious memory alive."

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