Statue for Bishop Auckland

The big day is nigh. The statue of Stan Laurel has finally arrived in Bishop Auckland and is expected to be erected on 17th August. The unveiling will be on Saturday 30th August at about 2.00pm and it is hoped that it will be carried out by Nancy Wardell and Jefferson Huntley Woods who, I've suggested to the council, are the most appropriate to carry out the ceremony, being Stan's nearest relatives over here, and they are in the process of contacting them. The council is arranging for Laurel and Hardy films to be shown on a big screen in the Town Hall, where there's a bar, and for various street entertainment. Tony Hillman Previously (click here) Tony is the Grand Sheik of the local Hog Wild Tent. He would be grateful if readers pass the unveiling information onto members asap to allow them maximum time to decide if they want to attend. He would also be grateful if we can let him know asap how many are likely to come as, if numbers are sufficient, we could have a Parade of Tents, probably starting from the Town Hall to walk down a street to the statue and then to escort the unveiling party and officials back to the Town Hall. To contact Tony click here. His address is 160 Park Lane, Darlington, Co Durham, DL1 5AG. Stan's daughter, Lois, was delighted to hear the news. She says, "What a great tribute; the family are thrilled with it. I only wish I could be there at the ceremony, but I am happy in the knowledge that my cousins Nancy and Huntley will be there to represent the family. Congratulations to you and all those involved in this wonderful project. I hope you and all the Sons plus the good people of Bishop Auckland have a really wonderful day and that the many visitors who come to Bishop Auckland will enjoy the statue for many years to come".