Praise all round for new park sculpture (From Penarth Times)

Praise all round for new park sculpture

TALENTED Penarth youngsters flocked to Belle Vue Park to help unveil a long-awaited sculpture, and see their own designs in 3D.

The children from Albert Road School had produced surface designs for the 'fallen leaves' sculpture, designed by David Mackie.

The Lottery-funded sculpture became a reality, thanks to the hard work of the Penarth Society, and their vice-chairman, project organiser Graham Robertson.

Mr Robertson spoke at a special ceremony last Thursday, in front of pupils, staff and civil dignitaries.

Mr Robertson's and other speeches at the ceremony - hosted by headteacher Julie Robbins at the school, emphasised the contribution made by pupils, and considered the way their descendants would remember their work.

Town mayor Cllr David Clapham spoke appreciatively of the role of the Penarth Society in promoting an amenity for local people of all ages and a focal point for the community. Lorraine Barrett AM highlighted the projects of Penarth Community Arts Project, and the sterling work of the Friends of Belle Vue in caring for the park.

Before the mayor led the company to look at the sculptures, Mr Robertson made a special plea for two other Penarth amenities.

He said: "For Alexandra Park, the Heritage Lottery Fund will make available threequarters of the £1.1 million needed for a complete make-over. The problem is that without 25 percent matched funding, the Vale might withdraw the bid, and thus lose a golden opportunity. The hope is the WDA will help."

He also talked about the Washington Gallery, which desperately needs core funding. The Arts Council for Wales is the key player.

Mr Robertson expressed hope that elected representatives would fight for these two valuable assets.

Guests moved into the park and responded well to the sculptures, which Mr Robertson believes will be "in the fullness of time a well-loved Penarth feature."