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Lost duck statue to be unveiled live on Radio 1

Getty Images/University of York Greg James pictured looking at Long BoiGetty Images/University of York
Long Boi gained fame thanks to appearing on Greg James' BBC Radio 1 Breakfast show

The statue of a popular duck who went missing will be unveiled live on BBC Radio 1 after gaining fame on Greg James' show.

Long Boi's legacy will be honoured on 26 September with a sculpture near the lake at Derwent College on the University of York campus.

The 28in (70cm) tall mallard/Indian runner gained fame for his unusual height, but was presumed dead after he vanished from campus last year.

The University of York Students Union said £5,347 had been raised to pay for the statue, which would ensure Long Boi "remains ever present in our hearts".

Long Boi built up an impressive social media following and had more than 56,000 Instagram followers.

In addition to his Radio 1 appearance, he also featured on US television.

In a statement, on X, formerly Twitter, the union said the statue had been a "long time coming".

"Tune in live to BBC Radio 1 on Thursday 26 September to join us as we celebrate Long Boi’s life and legacy, and unveil his statue to the world.

"This memorial would not have been possible without the support of our incredible community, who keep Long Boi’s memory and legacy alive.

"Through art work, fundraisers, and even a few tattoos, you’ve ensured that Long Boi remains ever present in our hearts."

Neil R Mason/University of York Students Union How the sculpture of Long Boi will look after the clay mould of the statue was hand-carved and then shipped to Greece for bronze castingNeil R Mason/University of York Students Union
The statue was hand-carved by wildlife sculptor Neil Mason

The clay mould of the statue was hand-carved by wildlife sculptor Neil Mason, before it was then shipped to Greece for bronze casting.

Mr Mason said he “relied on Instagram photos and videos people had recorded” of the duck as he had not seen him in real life.

He added: "I used those as reference materials, but I tried to engender the character he seemed to represent to people - he had quite an imperious look to him."

ZOE DUFFIN Long Boi showing off how tall he was while stood on grass in front of a lake at University of YorkZOE DUFFIN
Long Boi was featured on BBC Radio 1and US television before he went missing

City of York Council approved plans for the statue in July after a report said: "The location is significant being where the duck resided and was usually found and fed by local residents, staff and students."

The Student Union said people who donated to the statue fundraiser and opted for email updates would be sent information on how they can reserve a place at the unveiling.

It said it would then release details of how people could obtain any leftover tickets for the event.

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