On Sunday 23rd April at 12.30 pm the newly restored Red Lion statue will be unveiled on its portico in the High Street. All are welcome to witness the event!
The High Wycombe Society has been pleased to play a supporting role throughout the restoration project, having first observed the plight of the lion back in 2013 and brought the matter to wider attention in 2015.
The Bucks Free Press initiative in 2016, coupled with the determination of the descendants of Frank Hudson, the master-carver who created the statue in 1956, raised sufficient funds to enable Colin Mantripp to undertake the extensive repair work necessary at Lillyfee Studios.
Members of the High Wycombe Society may particularly remember that Colin brought the head of the lion with him to one of our Open Days at Pann Mill where he demonstrated his skills in woodcarving and answered questions about the restoration work helping to boost the funds and raise awareness of the ongoing maintenance requirements to keep the statue in good repair. An in-depth account of the restoration is to be found in the Society’s Spring 2017 newsletter.
We wish to thank all individuals and organisations who have generously donated to the cause.
Meanwhile …
Early morning visitors to the High Street on Saturday 22nd April may have already caught a glimpse of the lion as it was slowly hoisted into position.