Ken to get new waxwork

Drab suits have become something of a trademark for Ken Livingstone. Now his unique fashion sense is to be preserved for future generations and put on show in February.

Madame Tussaud's, which is making a new waxwork of the Mayor, has asked him to donate one of his famous suits to make his replica more "realistic".

The final touches to his waxwork will be one of the Mayor's own grey or khaki suits, which have been rather maligned in the fashion world.

The last Ken Livingstone waxwork, created during his days in the GLC, was melted down in 1995 because he was no longer deemed to be famous enough. However, his head was preserved in case it was needed again.

A Tussaud's spokeswoman said a new replica is needed since the Mayor's appearance had changed dramatically over the years.

She said: "We have already met him and taken lots of measurements to make sure he and the sculptor are happy with the results. He looks different, he has lost weight and no longer has a moustache. The old head doesn't look like him any more."

The museum spokeswoman said they were keen for Mr Livingstone to donate one of his own suits for the sake of authenticity.

"We don't know what he's going to give yet", she said. "But it would be great if he could give us one of his trademark khaki suits. He gave us a grey suit for his last waxwork."