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Royal News

New statue of Queen Elizabeth II combines royal with personal

A new statue of Queen Elizabeth II has been unveiled in England’s smallest county.

The official reveal of the 7 feet bronze sculpture took place on what would have been Elizabeth II’s 98th birthday – April 21st 2024.

The statue is in Oakham, Rutland and was commissioned by the county’s Lord Lieutenant.

It’s the work of sculptor, Hywel Pratley, and is cast in bronze.

It shows Her Late Majesty in a flowing dress and cloak and wearing a tiara. The statue also features three sculpted corgis as a tribute to the dogs who were a favourite of Elizabeth II.

Several real corgis also attended the ceremony which drew a crowd of several hundred people.

The statue is thought to be the first permanent life size statue of the late Queen to be created since her death in September 2022.

About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.