Date set for the tribute

A statue of Bobby Ball is to be unveiled in his Lancashire hometown on August 28, it has been announced.

The life-sized likeness will be erected in  Lowther Gardens in Lytham St Annes, just south of Blackpool.

It follows a £100,000 fundraising effort from fans and family following his death in October 2020 at the age of 76.

London based figurative sculptor, Ben Twiston-Davies created the statue, based on how he looked when he was 40  with a ‘twinkle in his eye’, one leg slightly forward and slightly pulling on his right brace with his right thumb.

Fylde council leader Karen Buckley previously said: ‘Bobby was a very special, incredibly talented and unique individual who was truly adopted by the locals of Lytham St Annes.

‘His lasting legacy of kindness and joy means he will be sadly missed and this statue will ensure he can go on giving that joy to visitors and residents of the area long after Bobby took his final bow and left the stage.’

The unveiling is free to watch, but VIP tickets including a champagne tea and entertainment are available here for £70.

Though born in Oldham, Ball lived in Lytham for the last 25 years of his life.

Published: 17 Jun 2022