RESIDENTS have cast their votes on which local people should be immortalised in ‘hero sculptures’ that will be built in the BCP area.
As reported, national charity Sustrans called on BCP residents to have their say on who should be made into a sculpture as part of a project launched for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
The charity asked for nominations of local celebrities, sportspeople, or members of the community who have made a substantial impact to be immortalised in steel and placed along the National Cycle Network route 2 in Bournemouth.
The nomination window ended on April 11 and Sustrans said the response to the initiative was “fantastic”.
A spokesperson told the Echo: “At the moment, we're working through the nominations to ensure they're suitable, and the Sustrans team are working on deciding on the final figures. This is based on a few criteria checks such as volume of votes, that they have links to the area, and cross-checking against other figures already in place across the country to reduce duplication.
“Once the final figures are chosen, Sustrans also need to liaise with the person directly (or their families if deceased), to ensure they are happy for a figure to be made of them. From there, we'll then work on an announcement for the public.”
Many residents commented their nominations on social media posts where a range of suggestions were put forward.
Renowned ethologist Jane Goodall, who was raised in Bournemouth, was mentioned as a worthy recipient by several residents – one of whom said: “She has worked tirelessly to increase our awareness on the animal kingdom, nature and climate change.”
Read more: Dr Jane Goodall: the life work of the local conservationist
Frankenstein author Mary Shelley and Poole Pirates speedway legend Ken Middleditch were also suggested, as was Karol Swiacki – founder of the successful Help from Bournemouth to Ukraine project.
Read more: Famous authors who lived in and were inspired by Dorset
Recently departed members of the community were also given several mentions, including AFC Bournemouth superfan John ‘Nonny’ Garard, known for leading the “Red Army” chants at the Vitality Stadium, and popular body piercer Sarge Metal Fatigue, whose sudden death in January caused widespread grief across the county.
Once decided, it is hoped the sculptures will be unveiled this summer.
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