Around 130 people see official opening of the Putney Sculpture Trail on Sunday

The unique, mile-long trail opened this Sunday (September 14th) features eight key pieces in prime riverside locations by respected British sculptor Alan Thornhill.

Visitors from all over the country, and even from as far away as Norway and Paris, came to the launch, which was also attended by council leader and Putney councillor Edward Lister, executive member for regeneration Cllr James Cousins, and the sculptor himself.

Alan Thornhill, 86, (pictured left) who is known for his distinctive style, donated the eight pieces as a gift to the people of Putney to complement his sculpture ‘Load’ on Putney Embankment, which he donated 20 years ago. He lived in the Putney area for many years and still has studios here.

The Putney Sculpture Trail proposals were developed by the Putney Town Centre Partnership, in cooperation with the sculptor and Wandsworth Council. The project is part funded by a grant of £25,000 from the Western Riverside Environmental Fund (WREF). The balance of the costs of installing the eight sculptures came from Wandsworth Council’s Town Centre Improvements Scheme programme.

The official launch was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the sculpture ‘Punch and Judy’, outside Rocket Riverside restaurant in Putney Wharf. Cllrs Cousins and Lister thanked Mr Thornhill for his gift, WREF for the grant and council staff for making the project possible. A visibly touched Mr Thornhill also thanked the council and its staff for their work.

Afterwards visitors had the choice of either seeing a film about Mr Thornhill’s work, or going on a guided tour of the trail. Refreshments were provided by Riverside Rocket restaurant and Sally’s café at St Mary's church.

Cllr Lister said the trail would add to Putney’s rich cultural heritage. “This, like the Putney Debates permanent exhibition, provides another unique asset for Putney and the borough that we can all share and enjoy for many years to come.”

September 19, 2008