South East Galvanizers has lent its expertise to assist with the production of a sculpture dedicated to community cycling.
The Witham-based plant was called upon to provide its specialist hot dip galvanizing service to a metal structure – ‘2012 Cycle Race Sculpture’ – which has been installed ona roundabout on the A24 in Dorking, Surrey, part of the route used in the Men’s and Women’s Olympic road races, which saw Lizzie Armitstead secure a silver medal last month.
The steel sculpture stands at two metres tall and three metres wide and has been designed by renowned London artist Heather Burrell. It depicts two cyclists, and consists of a series of leaf patterns, an idea inspired by the concept of leaf sponsors as a fundraising route - around 300 sponsors were given the opportunity to purchase a single metal ‘leaf’ to feature in the sculpture for £40. Additional funding was provided by Mole Valley District Council, whose Chairman, Councillor Caroline Salmon, had been instrumental in the project.
Neil Pearson, Commercial Manager of South East Galvanizers, commented: “We are extremely proud to be involved in such an iconic statue. Heather Burrell has created a really eye-catching design, which will live on for years.”
Sculpture designer Heather Burrell said: “I am very excited to have created the sculpture to celebrate cycling. The team at South East Galvanizers were extremely helpful and the service has ensured the durability of the artwork.”