A memorial to the late Queen Elizabeth II has been unveiled on what would have been her 98th birthday - the first statue since her death.
Amid cheers of crowds and approving barks of nearly 50 corgis, the permanent memorial went on show in the market town of Oakham in Rutland. The seven-foot bronze statue is displayed outside the local library, and is a dedicated memorial to the late monarch.
Residents were extremely pleased with the statue. One woman, Hilda Townsend, said: "It is just wonderful. We are the tiniest county but the first to honour the late majesty in such a big way. It is a very fitting tribute."
Her husband, John, added that the statue makes locals like him "extremely proud." The statue showcases a younger Queen Elizabeth, who in reality was just 5ft 4in. However, the memorial is seven feet tall, depicting her in flowing robes with three corgis at her feet.
The historic statue towered over Rutland locals (Terry Harris)
It is hoped that it will become popular among the "Instagram generation" (Terry Harris)According to sculptor Hywel Pratley, the memorial will become popular among social media users, who will want a selfie with the late Queen and her sculptured corgis. Speaking to a 400-strong crowd, he said: "The plinth is designed to be sat on and I can see the statue becoming popular with the Instagram generation, and why not? It will make perfect backdrop for pictures and people will be able to reach up and pat a dog or if small enough even sit in it's back!"
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The £125,000 statue was commissioned by Dr Sarah Furness, the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, following the Queen's death in September 2022. Mr Pratley decided to include the corgis in his design for a little bit "of fun" as well as showing the "late Queen's humanity and address her friendliness."
He begun preparing maquettes of a standing figure of the late Queen in January, before a smaller version was showcased at Oakham Castle two months later. Donations to create the statue came rushing in, mainly from individuals. According to organisers, it showed the strong community support for the project - which meant the and the required £125,000 was quickly raised.
During the consultation period Rutland County Council received 41 objections and 33 letters of support. However, planners said concerns about the statue's size and location were not enough to turn the idea down.
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