In a heartfelt tribute to England’s longest-serving monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, the quaint English town of Oakham unveiled the nation’s inaugural memorial statue in her honour, capturing the queen’s cherished connection with her beloved corgis.
Standing tall at seven feet, the bronze statue crafted by renowned sculptor Hywel Pratley depicts Queen Elizabeth II in regal attire, accompanied by three corgis at her feet—a poignant portrayal of the queen’s affection for her faithful canine companions.
Reflecting on the significance of the memorial, local dignitary Sarah Furness emphasized Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring warmth and humanity, sentiments echoed by citizens who fondly remember the monarch for her approachable demeanour and genuine compassion.
The unveiling of the statue marks the beginning of a nationwide effort to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s remarkable reign, with municipalities and institutions across Britain commissioning statues in her honour. While some of these projects were initiated before the queen’s passing, recent commissions aim to capture her affable nature and relatable persona, symbolizing her enduring legacy in the hearts of the people.
Pratley, the sculptor behind Oakham’s tribute, described Queen Elizabeth II as an “almost motherly figure,” underscoring her profound impact on the lives of countless citizens who view her with reverence and affection.
The statue serves as more than just a static monument; it invites interaction and engagement, fostering a sense of community as corgi owners and enthusiasts gather to pay homage to the queen and her beloved pets.
The creation of the statue was made possible through the collective effort of the public, who generously contributed to cover the £140,000 (approximately $177,000) price tag, demonstrating the widespread admiration and respect for Queen Elizabeth II throughout the nation.
As more memorials are slated for unveiling later this year, including a smiling depiction of the queen holding flowers in Newcastle-under-Lyme by Andy Edwards and two sculptures capturing her iconic smile and wave by Amy Goodman, alongside a potential national memorial endorsed by the royal family and British government, the queen’s enduring legacy continues to be celebrated and honoured across the country.
In Oakham and beyond, Queen Elizabeth II’s memory lives on, immortalized in bronze and cherished in the hearts of a grateful nation.