A LARGE memorial to commemorate the life and works of J.R.R. Tolkien could be installed in the Old Quad of Pembroke College later this year.

The college in St Aldate's has applied to Oxford City Council to erect a memorial plaque in its Old Quad dedicated to the celebrated author.

A sketch of the proposed plaque by Tolkien's great-nephew Tim Tolkien shows a portrait of the J.R.R. Tolkien surrounded by a landscape including a millstream, trees and mountains reminiscent of Middle Earth. The plaque will be at least 3ft high, made of cast bronze and sat on a Yorkstone base.

It is hoped that the plaque could be fixed at ground level in the south-east corner of the quad with a flower bed planted to provide a base.

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien studied at Exeter College, Oxford University before returning as a Fellow of Pembroke College from 1945 to 1959.

During his time at Pembroke College he wrote The Hobbit and the first two volumes of The Lord of the Rings while living at 20 Northmoor Road, North Oxford.

A heritage statement prepared by consultants Ridge and Partners reads: "It is my conclusion that this listed building application proposal at Pembroke College will provide a high quality addition that is compatible with its status as a Grade I listed building."

A decision on the application will be made by May 10, 2016.