This is Conrwall
Royal unveiling for fishermen's statue Print E-mail
Saturday, 06 October 2007

fishermans-memorial.jpg This statue of a seafarer casting his net is to become a lasting memorial in honour of all the fishermen who have lost their lives at sea. The statue, to be unveiled by the Princess Royal at Newlyn, will provide a focal point for many bereaved fishing families. Tony Woodhams, who runs the Newlyn Development Project, said: "There was no place ashore for bereaved families to sit quietly and remember their loved ones. The response we have had from the public in terms of donations has been overwhelming."

click here to watch the bbc video 

The bronze statue, which is more than lifesize at 10ft 6in, was cast by Tom Leaper, an artist from Newlyn.

The statue was made in Oswestry, Salop.

Money was raised locally through art exhibitions and concerts and there was a nationwide appeal.

Douglas Williams, chairman of the trustees, said that donations reached £40,000 and had included gifts from 10p upwards. "The Duke of Cornwall also sent a very generous donation," said Mr Williams.

The unveiling will be a major event for the county, bringing together Vice Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall Michael Goldsworthy, Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen representative David Harris, civic dignitaries, service representatives - including personnel from RNAS Culdrose - and a fly past involving 771 Squadron. The Newlyn Male Voice Choir, will attend, as will the inshore lifeboat and many fishing vessels.

The unveiling takes place at Tolcarne, Newlyn, by Newlyn Art Gallery, on October 11 from 2pm.

article copyright WESTERN MORNING NEWS 

Comments (1)Add Comment
The Fishermen of England
written by Michael Parker, October 11, 2007
I was delighted to read this news item. My wife and I come from fishing and lifeboat families and feel deeply that the fishermen of England have been for far too long neglected and undervalued, especially by our politicians. This looks a fine memorial, fitting for a fine body of men - it deserves to be more than life-size, for so are they.

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