Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee statue unveiled

The first of two life-size bronze sculptures of Queen Elizabeth II has been unveiled.

The statue in Riverside Park in Andover, Hampshire, was commissioned by Test Valley Borough Council to mark the Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

Its "sister" statue is due to be placed in Romsey next year.

Sculptor Amy Goodman said she had wanted to capture the late Queen's "warmth and humility".

The sculpture depicts the monarch in her later years, wearing a robe adorned with pictures inspired by the community.

Ms Goodman worked with community groups and schools to capture memories of the Queen and her links to the town and used these to add detail to the artwork.

The late Queen, who died in September 2022, visited the town in 1993.

Ms Goodman said: “It has been such an honour and privilege to sculpt our late Queen.

"I wanted to capture her warmth and humility; she did have such a radiant smile."

The community artwork that inspired the designs on the robe has gone on display in the former O2 unit in the Chantry Centre.

The statue was unveiled by Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkinson.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said the Platinum Jubilee in June 2022 was a "unique moment" in British history.

“The artwork stands as a tribute to Her Majesty’s exceptional reign and legacy, as well as the Andover community that helped to shape the final piece,” he said.

A second piece - depicting a young Queen at her coronation - will be installed in Romsey next year.

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