BRADFORD Council is backing a fundraising campaign to install a bronze sculpture of Captain Sir Tom Moore in the district.
The Keighley-born fundraiser became a global celebrity when he raised more than £32million by completing a 100-lap walk in his garden during the first weeks of the pandemic last year.
A bronze life size statue called ‘The Walk of Hope’ has been designed and commissioned by Tony Clark, of Colton, Leeds, and Keith Sharratt and was completed in October last year.
The two artists are now trying to raise £60,000 to cover the costs of the statue and it is hoped that is will eventually be installed in Keighley as a tribute to his extraordinary life and huge fundraising achievement.
Saira Ali, team leader of Bradford Council’s landscape, design & conservation team is leading on the Council’s support for this campaign and supporting efforts to get it moved to Keighley. Sir Tom’s family will also be consulted to make sure they are happy with this tribute.
Go to uk.gofundme.com/f/captain-sir-tom-moore-bronze-statue to make a donation. If the target amount is exceeded, the excess funds will be shared between the Captain Tom Foundation and veterans’ charities.
Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “We feel that this statue would be a great way to honour Captain Sir Tom so we are happy to support this campaign and help to get it installed in Keighley where he was born and brought up.”
A suitable location for the statue will be sought in Keighley town centre and discussed with local stakeholders. The statue will go on a plinth with a plaque on it.
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